Indonesia: Eruption occurs at Mount Sinabung in North Sumatra Province Jan. 20

Event

Additional volcanic activity is likely at Mount Sinabung in Karo Regency, North Sumatra Province, in the coming weeks. Significant activity has occurred at the volcano since early January, with the latest eruptions Jan. 17, 18, and 20. The Jan. 17 eruption produced ash plumes as high as 500 meters (0.3 miles), while the height of the ash plumes in the Jan. 18 and 20 eruptions was unclear. Ashfall is likely in areas surrounding the volcano following eruptions. Indonesia's Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) continues to maintain the warning level of orange, the second-highest of four levels, as of Jan. 20.

Authorities have enforced a 3-km (1.8-mile) exclusion zone from Mount Sinabung's summit. Officials have previously warned residents living along rivers near Mount Sinabung about the possibility of lava, pyroclastic flows, and lahars (debris flows) if a significant eruption occurs. Any periods of heavy precipitation could exacerbate the threat. Evacuation orders are possible if additional eruptions occur.

The volcano is approximately 55 km (35 miles) southwest of Medan.

Flight disruptions may occur at Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), which serves the city of Medan if additional significant eruptions occur. Minor delays are also possible on other routes in the region if planes detour around ash clouds. Authorities may impose ground travel restrictions along roads in affected areas, as ash could reduce visibility and make streets slippery. Localized ground traffic disruptions are possible.

Health
Any additional volcanic activity may impact air quality in the areas surrounding Mount Sinabung, especially Deli Serdang, Karo, and Langkat 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.

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 protective face coverings 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.

Resources

MAGMA Indonesia
Center for Research and Development of Geological Disaster Technology (BPPTKG) Twitter page (Indonesian)
Kualanamu International Airport