Mount Karangetang, located on Siau Island, Siau Tagulandang Biaro (Sitaro) Islands Regency, North Sulawesi, has once again shown significant volcanic activity. The volcano reportedly erupted on Sunday (12/7/2026) night at 19:14 WITA, centered in the northern crater.
The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) confirmed that the phenomenon began with a Strombolian-type eruption. This mildly explosive eruption spewed incandescent material up to 100 meters high, accompanied by booming sounds heard around the crater area.
The activity continued with an effusive eruption in the form of lava flows. Based on monitoring data, the hot material moved northward up to 1,000 meters, southward up to 1,000 meters, and west-southwest with a reach of 400 meters from the main crater.
There were brief concerns due to a large red glow appearing at the peak of the mountain, caused by weeds catching fire after being hit by hot material. However, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Sitaro Regency confirmed on Monday (13/7/2026) morning that the fire had been completely extinguished.
As of now, BPBD personnel remain on standby in the field. Officers continue to closely monitor the dynamics of the volcano and weather conditions to anticipate potential further risks, including the risk of forest and land fires due to volcanic activity.
