Mount Karangetang, located on Siau Island, Sitaro Islands Regency, North Sulawesi, showed significant volcanic activity again on Sunday night. An explosive eruption was observed at around 19:14 WITA, triggering quite intense ejections of incandescent material around the crater area.
Head of the Karangetang Volcano Observation Post (PGA), Yudia P. Tatipang, explained that the ejection of hot material had triggered a fire in the reeds around the mountain peak. The reflection of firelight from the incandescent material on the clouds created the visual of a large flame pointing towards the northern side, drawing the attention of residents around the island.
Although the explosive activity appeared quite strong, the PGA confirmed that the incandescent material was not observed to reach residential areas. Currently, the team on the ground remains on high alert to monitor the possibility of subsequent lava flows that could endanger the slopes of the mountain.
As of this report, the status of Mount Karangetang remains at Level II or Standby. The public is urged to remain calm and always comply with official recommendations from the authorities to anticipate any unwanted risks from the volcano's activity.
