Mount Semeru, located in Lumajang Regency, East Java, has once again shown volcanic activity in the form of pyroclastic flows on Saturday (13/6/2026). Based on data from the Semeru Volcano Observatory (PPGA), the eruption was recorded with a maximum amplitude of 28 millimeters and a duration of 8 minutes and 37 seconds.
The Chief Executive of the Lumajang Regency Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Isnugroho, confirmed that the pyroclastic flow activity began to be detected at 23:00 WIB. Unfortunately, thick fog obscuring the volcano prevented field officers from precisely observing the travel distance of the volcanic material.
Although the pyroclastic flows have currently ceased and the condition of residential areas around the slopes has been declared safe, the BPBD is still taking anticipatory measures. The Quick Response Team (TRC) has been alerted to respond to potential escalation of volcanic activity, especially if the movement of the pyroclastic flow approaches a radius of 8 kilometers from the crater peak.
In addition to the threat of pyroclastic flows, Isnugroho emphasized the importance of vigilance against the risk of rain-triggered lahar floods. The accumulation of sand and rock materials from the eruption on the mountain slopes is now increasing, which could potentially be swept away by water currents if high-intensity rain occurs in the area.
Currently, the status of Mount Semeru remains at Level III (Alert). The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) emphasized a strict ban on activities in the southeastern sector along Besuk Kobokan, up to 13 kilometers from the crater peak, to avoid the risk of expanding pyroclastic flows and lahar floods.
