Clarification on Submarine Volcanic Eruption Rumors: Disaster Narratives in the US and Japan Are Hoaxes

Recently, social media has been abuzz with video posts narrating the potential for a major disaster in Japan and the United States. The posts claim that submarine volcanoes spanning hundreds of kilometers in both countries will erupt simultaneously, predicted to wipe out the respective regions. This narrative, which spread via the TikTok platform, has garnered widespread attention and triggered anxiety among netizens.

Responding to this issue, Volcanologist from Brawijaya University, Sukir Maryanto, emphasized that the claim has no scientific basis. According to him, the probability of a volcanic eruption triggering volcanic activity in another location thousands of kilometers away is extremely small. Volcanic interactions between mountains usually occur only if they are within the same tectonic system or in very close proximity, within a radius of less than 10 kilometers.

Echoing this explanation, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed that, to date, there is no scientific evidence showing a cause-and-effect relationship between eruptions on one continent and volcanic activity on another. The agency continues to monitor volcanic activity in the United States, such as Mount Great Sitkin and Kilauea, but there are no official warnings regarding the potential for synchronous destructive eruptions as narrated in the video.

Further investigation revealed that the visuals used in the hoax content were the result of information manipulation. The photo shown in the video is neither of a volcano in Japan nor the US, but rather documentation of the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait in 2018. The iconic photo was taken by Reuters photographer Muhammad Adimaja during the eruption event.

The public is urged to remain calm and always verify information circulating on social media. Regarding volcanic activity in Japan, the local meteorological agency (JMA) continues to conduct close monitoring, but there are no reports indicating an existential threat to the country. Always refer to information from credible news channels or official government agencies before sharing content that induces fear.