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30 Mar 2023 | 02:56 AM UTC

Indonesia: Volcanic activity ongoing at Mount Merapi in Java as of March 30 /update 2

Volcanic activity ongoing at Mount Merapi in Java, Indonesia, as of March 30; authorities maintaining Level 3 (Standby) alert.

Warning

Event

Volcanic activity is ongoing at Mount Merapi in the Special Region of Yogyakarta and Central Java Province in Java as of March 30. The volcano has emitted incandescent lava flows at least 29 times since March 28, sliding southwestward up to a maximum distance of 2 km (1.3 miles). Authorities have not mandated any evacuations as of March 30 but are maintaining a Level 3 (Standby) alert (the second-highest level on a four-tier scale), which has been in place since November 2020. Officials have cautioned that an explosive eruption could eject volcanic material up to 3 km (2 miles) from the summit and advise individuals to stay away from potential hazard areas.

Health
Further volcanic activity may impact air quality in parts of Java, particularly in areas nearest the crater. Individuals in the region - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancers - may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion.

Transport
Transport disruptions are possible in the surrounding area, especially if a significant eruption occurs. Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of substantial ashfall, reducing visibility. Officials might close roads near the volcano depending on the presence of hazardous volcanic material. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace. Authorities might temporarily close airport facilities if significant ashfall accumulations occur.

Advice

Confirm flights if a large eruption occurs. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near Mount Merapi over the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry facemasks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.

Resources

Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA)
MAGMA Indonesia - List of Volcanic Activity Levels