Volcanic activity at Mount Karangetang on Siau Island, Siau Tagulandang Biaro (Sitaro) Islands Regency, showed a significant increase again on Sunday (12/7/2026). This eruption was marked by fire bursts and incandescent lava flows observed from the summit area, triggering a swift response from the local government.
Acting Regent of Sitaro Islands, Heronimus Makainas, officially appealed to all residents not to panic, although they are asked to stay increasingly vigilant. He emphasized the importance of complying with all technical recommendations issued by the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), considering that the mountain remains at Level III (Alert) status.
To minimize risk, the local government has prohibited residents from engaging in any activities within disaster-prone areas or entering designated hazard zones. As of this report, conditions on the ground remain safe, with no reports of casualties or infrastructure damage.
In response to the situation, Heronimus instructed regional officials, from district to village levels, to strengthen coordination with the TNI, Polri, and BPBD. All relevant agencies are asked to conduct intensive monitoring in the field and ensure accurate information is delivered quickly to the public.
The Sitaro Regency Government is committed to continuously monitoring volcanic activity developments on a regular basis. The public is also encouraged to prioritize their safety and that of their families, while hoping that geological conditions in the area will soon stabilize.
