Jakarta, April 6: Indonesia’s most active volcano, Mount Semeru, erupted repeatedly on April 6, sending ash columns up to 1,100 metres above its summit and prompting authorities to enforce safety restrictions in surrounding areas.
Officials from the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation reported that at least seven eruptions were recorded since midnight, with volcanic activity beginning at 00:38 a.m. local time. The latest eruption occurred at 9:29 a.m., while the most intense activity was observed at 6:51 a.m., when the ash plume reached its highest point.
Monitoring teams stated that thick ash clouds, ranging in colour from white to grey, drifted southward with moderate intensity. Authorities have advised residents and visitors to remain outside a 5-kilometre radius from the crater. In the southeastern sector, the restricted zone extends up to 13 kilometres along the Besuk Kobokan river, with warnings that hazards such as lahars and pyroclastic flows could reach distances of up to 17 kilometres from the summit.
The latest eruptions follow a series of recent volcanic events at the site. In March, the volcano emitted ash columns reaching approximately 1,000 metres and generated a hot avalanche cloud that travelled around three kilometres along the same river channel. Officials noted that the eruption lasted nearly five minutes and was accompanied by measurable seismic activity.
Earlier, in February, the volcano recorded five eruptions in a single day, with ash rising up to 1,000 metres above the summit. Monitoring authorities reported that the strongest of these occurred in the early morning hours, while subsequent eruptions continued later in the day with notable seismic readings.
Mount Semeru remains at Level III alert, the second-highest status in Indonesia’s volcanic warning system. The designation reflects sustained volcanic activity and the potential for further eruptions.
Authorities have reiterated advisories restricting public movement within designated high-risk zones and have urged residents living near the volcano to stay alert and comply with official instructions. The warnings specifically highlight the risks posed by hot clouds, falling volcanic material, and secondary hazards such as mudflows.
Rising 3,676 metres above sea level, Mount Semeru is the tallest volcano on Java Island and among the most active in Indonesia. The country sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity, and hosts nearly 130 active volcanoes.
