16 Jan 2021 | 03:09 PM UTC
Indonesia: Mount Semeru erupts in East Java Province Jan. 16
Mount Semeru erupts in East Java Province, Indonesia, Jan. 16. Transport disruptions possible. Confirm travel plans.
Event
Mount Semeru erupted in East Java Province, Indonesia, at around 1700 Jan. 16. The eruption produced ash plumes as high as 5.5 km (1.2 miles); the wind is reportedly blowing the ash plumes northeastward. Authorities may issue official evacuation orders in the coming days; they have advised residents in the Curah Kobokan river basin to be on alert for a possible cold lava flow, which can be triggered by heavy rainfall combining with volcanic material.
Indonesia's Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) is maintaining an orange warning, the second-highest of four levels, indicating the potential impact of further eruptions on flights as of Jan. 16. Further significant eruptions could lead to airport closures, flight delays, or cancellations at Malang's Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG), which is located around 30 km (19 miles) northwest of the volcano. Authorities may impose ground travel restrictions along roads in affected areas, as ashfall could reduce visibility and make streets slippery. Localized traffic disruptions are possible.
Health
Volcanic activity may impact air quality in the areas of East Java Province surrounding Mount Semeru, especially Lumajang and Malang regencies. Air quality could become a concern, particularly in areas near the crater, following an explosive event. Individuals in the region - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion.
The volcano is around 80 km (50 miles) south-southeast of Sidoarjo.
Advice
In the event of further eruptions, contact airlines for updated flight information; confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport. Avoid areas with heavy ash accumulations. If operating in areas affected by the ash cloud, consider remaining indoors in air-conditioned facilities when possible. Those who must be outdoors should use facemasks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation. Drive defensively; seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas close to the volcano. Heed all official orders.
