07 Nov 2024 | 10:30 AM UTC
Indonesia: Increased volcanic activity ongoing at Mount Marapi in West Sumatra Province as of Nov. 7
Increased volcanic activity ongoing at Mount Marapi in West Sumatra, Indonesia, as of Nov. 7. Authorities raised volcano alert level.
Increased volcanic activity is ongoing at Mount Marapi in West Sumatra Province as of Nov. 7. Authorities raised the alert level for the volcano from Level II (Alert) to Level III (Standby) following several eruptive episodes in recent days. An eruption Oct. 27 produced an ash cloud rising 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) from the crater and another eruption Nov. 6 produced an ash cloud rising to 1,500 meters (4,921 feet). Eruptive activity is ongoing as of early Nov. 7, with the ash cloud currently rising to around 800 meters (2,625 feet). Seismic activity has also increased at the volcano since Oct. 7.
Communities around Mount Marapi and climbers, visitors, and tourists have been advised not to enter or carry out activities within a radius of 4.5 km (2.8 miles) from the crater of Mount Marapi. Communities living in surrounding valleys have been advised to remain alert for potential lava flows and lahars. Residents in the region are advised to wear face masks if ashfall occurs. Additional eruptions could cause low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, pyroclastic flows, and landslides in the surrounding area.
Further volcanic activity may impact air quality in West Sumatra Province and neighboring areas. 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.
Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of significant ashfall, and visibility could be reduced. Officials may 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. Disruptions are possible at Minangkabau International Airport (PDG) in Padang if eruptive activity continues and winds direct ash clouds toward the airport.
Plan for possible transport disruptions if operating near Marapi Volcano over the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; drive cautiously in areas affected by ash and consequently reduced visibility. Carry facemasks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area. Confirm flights.
