Volcanic activity at Mount Karangetang in Siau Tagulandang Biaro Islands Regency (Sitaro), North Sulawesi, has once again shown a significant increase. On Sunday (12/7) night at 19:14 WITA, the volcano was observed erupting, starting with a 100-meter-high Strombolian-type explosion from the North Crater, accompanied by clearly audible rumbling sounds.
The Acting Head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria, explained that the eruption continued with an effusive phase in the form of incandescent lava flows. Based on field observations, lava material has flowed up to one kilometer to the north and south, while to the southwest, the flow reached a distance of 400 meters from the center of the crater.
This increase in activity has actually been detected since early July 2026, marked by a rise in the smoke column height up to 700 meters and the recording of various types of seismic activity, ranging from avalanche earthquakes and gusting signals to harmonic tremors. Nevertheless, the Geological Agency stated that Mount Karangetang's status currently remains at Level II (Alert).
Authorities emphasized the importance of vigilance for local communities as the threat of lava avalanches and hot clouds still potentially exists. Residents are strictly prohibited from conducting activities within a 1.5-kilometer radius of the North and South Craters, and are asked to stay away from the southwest to southern sectors within a 2.5-kilometer distance from the South Crater.
The public is urged to remain calm, monitor updates through PVMBG's official channels, and ignore any unverified information regarding the current condition of Mount Karangetang.
