The increase in Mount Semeru's volcanic activity to Level III or Alert demands extra vigilance from people living in disaster-prone areas. In addition to the threat of eruption, the risk of lahar floods is a primary concern, especially when rain intensity at the mountain summit increases drastically.
Geography lecturer at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Indranova Suhendro, warned that post-eruption volcanic material deposits—such as sand, gravel, and large boulders—are highly vulnerable to being washed into river flows. This danger lurks even when residential areas below experience no rain, as lahar flows can be triggered by sudden rainfall at the summit area.
Indranova specifically highlighted the Besuk Semut River as a crucial zone that serves as a main path for pyroclastic flows and lahar flows. Therefore, he emphasized the importance of residents adhering to the recommendations of the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) to refrain from any activity in the designated danger zones.
Furthermore, he highlighted the dilemma of sand mining activities in the region. Although it serves as an economic lifeline for the community, mining in disaster-prone areas carries high safety risks. According to him, security and safety aspects must remain top priorities amidst the challenges of meeting the local community's livelihood needs.
In conclusion, Indranova invited the public to increase their literacy regarding volcanic characteristics. Coexisting with an active volcano requires mental preparedness and discipline in following instructions from the government and experts to minimize the impact of disaster risks.
