Mount Sinabung, located in North Sumatra, erupted this morning, sending a thick column of volcanic ash into the sky. The eruption occurred at around 10:17 a.m. local time, according to reports from the Geological Agency. The ash plume reached approximately 3,500 meters above the summit, or about 5,960 meters above sea level. Observers noted that the column leaned toward the east and southeast, indicating the direction of the prevailing winds. The eruption was captured on seismograms with a maximum amplitude of 120 millimeters, highlighting the intensity of the seismic activity associated with the event. Prior to the eruption, the Geological Agency had detected signs of increased volcanic activity. Between August 1 and 30, 2026, the volcano emitted white and gray smoke from its main crater, ranging in height from 50 to 1,000 meters above the summit. Vegetation on the eastern slopes was observed to be yellowing and drying, suggesting possible impacts from the ongoing volcanic activity. On the day of the eruption, the agency recorded 85 volcanic earthquakes, one gust earthquake, and one harmonic tremor, all contributing to the assessment of heightened risk. As a result of these observations, the Geological Agency raised the alert level for Mount Sinabung from Level II (Caution) to Level III (Alert) at 12:30 p.m. local time. This change came into effect following the eruption and marked a significant escalation in the volcano’s status. At Level III, residents and visitors are advised to avoid areas within a three-kilometer radius of the summit and a six-kilometer sectoral radius to the south-southeast. Those living near rivers originating from the volcano are also urged to remain vigilant due to the potential for lahar floods, fast-moving currents of water and volcanic debris. The agency emphasized the importance of maintaining calm and avoiding the spread of unverified information. Residents are encouraged to follow the guidance of the North Sumatra Provincial Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) and the Karo District Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD). Local governments were also instructed to coordinate actively with the Sinabung Volcano Observation Post in Ndokum Siroga Village. Real-time updates on the volcano’s activity are accessible through the PVMBG app and other official channels. The eruption marks the first significant activity at Mount Sinabung in over five years. Since its last known eruption, the volcano had remained relatively quiet, with periodic low-level emissions. The recent event underscores the unpredictable nature of volcanic activity and highlights the need for continuous monitoring and community preparedness. The Geological Agency continues to monitor the situation closely, with regular assessments to determine whether further action is necessary. Authorities are currently working to ensure the safety of nearby communities while providing accurate information to prevent panic. Efforts are underway to reinforce communication channels and provide support to affected populations. As the situation develops, officials expect to release further updates and adjust response strategies based on new data. For now, the focus remains on maintaining public awareness and ensuring compliance with safety protocols.
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