Mount Karangetang, located on Siau Island, Sitaro Islands Regency, North Sulawesi, showed increased volcanic activity again on Sunday (12/7/2026) night. The explosive eruption, which occurred at around 19:14 WITA, ejected incandescent lava material into the area around the crater and triggered a fire on the reed vegetation in the mountain's summit area.
The Head of the Karangetang Volcano Observation Post (PGA), Yudia P. Tatipang, explained that the eruption began with a loud boom. The eruption column reportedly reached a height of 300 to 400 meters from the northern crater, with volcanic material heading northwest, specifically between the flow of Kali Batu Bulan and Kawahang.
Although the fire looked quite large from a distance due to the reflection of light on the clouds, Yudia ensured that the distribution of incandescent material was still limited to the summit area and was not heading towards residential areas. The PGA team continues to conduct close observations to detect potential subsequent flows of incandescent lava that may occur.
In response to this situation, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Sitaro Islands Regency, along with the Quick Response Team, has been on full alert. Residents are urged to increase vigilance, especially those living around river flows originating from the mountain peak.
To date, Mount Karangetang remains at Level II (Alert) status. Residents are strictly prohibited from entering the danger radius around the crater and lava flow paths. The local government emphasized the importance of the community always complying with official recommendations and monitoring the latest information from the authorities to anticipate further disaster risks.
