Indonesia: Mount Agung volcano alert level downgraded Oct. 29 /update 10

Event

On Sunday, October 29, Indonesia's National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB) downgraded the alert level for Bali’s Mount Agung volcano from the highest level 4 to the second-highest level 3 following a reduction in seismic activity. However, an eruption remains possible and the 12-km (7.5-mi) exclusion zone remains in place.

Bali's main tourist areas of Kuta and Seminyak, located some 70 km (45 mi) from Mount Agung, would likely not be directly affected should an eruption occur, as the possible paths of lava and mudflows are predicted to run only a little further than the exclusion zone. However, flights to and from the island could be disrupted.

Context

A state of emergency was originally declared on September 19. Three days later the BNPB raised the alert warning to the highest level and set up the exclusion zone, from which over 150,000 people have been evacuated.

Mount Agung's last major eruption occurred in 1963 and resulted in the deaths of around 1500 people.

Advice

Individuals present in affected areas are advised to monitor the situation and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders). Potentially impacted travelers are advised to confirm flight reservations.