Volcanic activity at Mount Merapi on the border of the Special Region of Yogyakarta and Central Java increased again on Friday morning. According to a report from the Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Center (BPPTKG), the mountain spewed pyroclastic density currents (hot clouds) up to two kilometers to the southwest.
The eruption event was recorded at 08:31 WIB with a duration of 137.4 seconds and a maximum amplitude of 34.08 millimeters. The volcanic material headed toward the upper reaches of the Sat and Putih Rivers, which are areas vulnerable to lava avalanches.
To date, BPPTKG maintains Mount Merapi's status at Level III or Alert (Siaga). The public is urged not to conduct any activities within the established danger radius, especially along river basins originating from Merapi's peak, such as the Boyong, Bedog, Krasak, and Bebeng Rivers, which carry potential risks up to seven kilometers.
Head of BPPTKG, Agus Budi Santoso, emphasized that the magma supply inside the mountain is still ongoing, keeping the potential for pyroclastic clouds high. In addition to the threat of hot clouds, residents living on the mountain slopes are advised to remain vigilant against cold lava floods during heavy rains and potential volcanic ash fall.
Authorities strictly reminded tourists and local residents once again to follow official government recommendations. All hiking trails remain closed to ensure public safety and security from the hazards of ongoing dynamic eruptive activity.
