Mount Semeru Erupts, Its Ash Soars Up to 500 Meters

Kapanlagi.com - Mount Semeru, the king of mountains on the island of Java, showcased its stunning activity again on Friday, December 13, 2024. The first eruption occurred at 03:41 WIB, with an ash column soaring high up to 600 meters. Unfortunately, thick fog obstructed our view from witnessing this natural wonder directly. However, not long after, around 07:42 WIB, Semeru erupted again with a more spectacular second eruption, producing an ash column 500 meters above its crater.

Data from the Mount Semeru Volcano Monitoring Post (PPGA) at Gunung Sawur indicated that this phenomenon was recorded on the seismograph with a maximum amplitude of 20 millimeters and lasted for 90 seconds. Although this eruption attracted attention, the Head of the Lumajang BPBD, Patria Dwi Hastiadi, emphasized that the situation remains in the normal category and does not disrupt the activities of the local community.

However, authorities continue to remind everyone to stay vigilant, with the activity status of Mount Semeru at level II. The public is urged to adhere to the established safe limits for the sake of collective safety. Let us witness together the beauty and power of nature that continually reminds us of the grandeur of our Earth!

1. Chronology of Mount Semeru Eruption

On Friday, December 13, 2024, Mount Semeru once again showed its strength with increased volcanic activity since early morning. At 03:41 WIB, a powerful eruption launched an ash column 600 meters into the sky, accompanied by a seismograph record indicating a maximum amplitude of 22 millimeters for 129 seconds.

Shortly after, at 07:42 WIB, another eruption shook the area with an ash column reaching 500 meters and a duration of 90 seconds, with a maximum amplitude of 20 millimeters. Foggy weather enveloped the mountain peak, making visual observation difficult; however, the recorded vibrations indicated that Semeru's volcanic activity remained high, although it had not significantly impacted the surrounding environment.

2. Impact of the Eruption on Residents and the Surrounding Environment

Although this volcanic eruption did not directly cause damage, threats still loom. The fallout of volcanic ash can degrade air quality, especially for those living around the mountain area. Ash rain can also affect crops and the cleanliness of nearby water sources.

In facing this situation, the BPBD urged residents to always wear masks when engaging in outdoor activities to protect their respiratory health. Additionally, it is important for the community to stay updated with official information from authorities regarding the developments of volcanic activity occurring.

3. Vulnerable Zone and Appeals to the Community

PVMBG has established a dangerous zone along Besuk Kobokan, covering an area up to 8 kilometers from the summit of Mount Semeru. The community is urged not to engage in activities within a radius of 500 meters from the riverbank along Besuk Kobokan, considering the high risk of lahar flows and hot ash avalanches.

Even though they are outside the zone, residents are still advised to be vigilant about the potential for rain lahars that can occur at any time, especially during the rainy season. The threat of hot ash clouds and lava flows must also be anticipated, particularly around rivers that originate from the summit of the mountain.

4. Has Started to Increase Since Tuesday, December 10, 2024

On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, Mount Semeru once again showed its activity with an eruption occurring at 16:42 WIB. Unfortunately, the beauty of the eruption was obscured by thick fog that enveloped the surrounding area from early morning until the evening.

Although the visual of the eruption was not visible, the observation post officer of Mount Semeru, Ghufron Alwi, revealed that the seismograph recorded rumbling activity with a maximum amplitude of 22 mm and a relatively long duration of 110 seconds. "This eruption cannot be observed directly, but the data we obtained indicates significant volcanic activity," explained Ghufron, as reported by ANTARA.

5. Mitigation and Anticipation Steps Ahead

In an effort to minimize disaster risks, authorities continuously conduct in-depth monitoring of volcanic activity at Mount Semeru. By utilizing seismographic tools and routine visual observations, the latest information is consistently communicated to the public. Not only that, evacuation simulations are also held periodically to ensure residents are prepared for the worst-case scenario.

Safe evacuation routes have been established, and residents are reminded to evacuate to safer locations if the situation begins to become concerning. "The community is urged not to engage in activities within a three-kilometer radius of the crater or summit of Mount Semeru, as the risk of pyroclastic rock ejection is very high," emphasized Ghufron.

6. Mount Semeru

Mount Semeru, the king of the mountains in East Java, continuously fascinates and stirs our curiosity. Its high geological activity is due to its location in a tectonic plate subduction zone, where magma pressure continues to build until it erupts with a rumble that shakes the ground. This natural phenomenon makes Semeru not just a mountain, but also a symbol of unpredictable and astonishing natural power.

7. How to protect yourself during a volcanic eruption?

Stay alert and protect yourself! Wear a mask, avoid high-risk areas, and follow instructions from authorities. Make sure you are in a safe location, far from the threats of lava flows and hazardous pyroclastic clouds. Safety is the top priority!

8. Does the activity of Mount Semeru affect flights?

Volcanic ash can pose a serious barrier to flight paths, but it all depends on the wind direction and the intensity of the eruption. The decision to proceed with or delay flights must be made carefully, considering that these factors can change rapidly.

9. What is a pyroclastic flow?

A pyroclastic flow, an astonishing yet terrifying phenomenon, is a mixture of hazardous gases, volcanic ash, and hot materials that rush down from the mountain's peak at high speeds, creating a dramatic and frightening sight for anyone who witnesses it.

(kpl/ank)