The Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Center (BPPTKG) reported an increase in the intensity of volcanic activity at Mount Merapi during the observation period on Sunday (5/7). Within a 24-hour period, Java's most active volcano recorded one pyroclastic flow and 21 lava avalanche events.
The pyroclastic flow event was recorded at 17:17 WIB with a duration reaching 121.86 seconds and a maximum amplitude of 46.09 mm. The pyroclastic material was observed sliding southwest, specifically toward the upstream areas of the Sat and Putih Rivers. Meanwhile, the 21 observed lava avalanches had a maximum runout distance of up to 2 kilometers to the southwest, specifically along the flows of the Sat, Putih, and Krasak Rivers.
To date, Mount Merapi remains at Level III or Alert status. BPPTKG established a danger zone in the southern to southwestern sectors, covering the Boyong River up to a maximum distance of 5 km, as well as the Bedog, Krasak, and Bebeng Rivers up to a 7 km radius. In the southeastern sector, potential hazards include the flow of the Woro River up to 3 km and the Gendol River up to 5 km. The public is also asked to beware of volcanic material ejection in the event of an explosive eruption within a 3 km radius of the summit.
Responding to the widespread illegal climbing content on social media, Head of the Mount Merapi National Park (TNGM) Office, T. Heri Wibowo, emphasized that the closure of climbing routes remains fully in effect. This policy refers to the volcano's status elevation that has been in place since November 2020 to guarantee public safety.
The TNGM urges the public not to be provoked by uncredible information regarding the volcano's activity. All residents located in Disaster Prone Area (KRB) III are advised to remain alert and continuously refer to official directives from the BPPTKG and local government.
