Priatin Hadi Wijaya, the Head of the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), has confirmed that Mount Semeru currently remains at Level IV (Alert). This high alert status necessitates strict precautions, as residents are strongly advised to avoid all activities within a 20-kilometer sectoral exclusion zone extending southeast-south from the summit, as well as an 8-kilometer radius around the volcano. “The status remains Level 4, and the recommendation for the 8-kilometer radius and the 20-kilometer sectoral zone towards the southeast-south remains in effect,” Hadi stated from the PVMBG Building in Bandung on Friday, November 21.
Hadi further explained that these critical safety distances are under continuous evaluation by PVMBG experts. The agency is prepared to expand these zones if warranted by evolving volcanic activity. “Our experts will diligently assess whether the 20-kilometer and 8-kilometer zones need to be further expanded,” he added, underscoring the dynamic nature of their geological hazard assessment and commitment to public safety.
PVMBG maintains real-time surveillance of Indonesia’s 69 active volcanoes to ensure comprehensive oversight. Among these, Mount Semeru stands as the sole volcano currently designated at Level IV (Alert), signaling its highly active state. In addition, vigilant monitoring shows Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki and Mount Merapi are both under Level III (Standby) status, indicating heightened caution is required. The broader assessment also reveals 21 volcanoes are at Level II (Watch), while a significant 45 volcanoes are classified as normal.
Emphasizing the importance of public composure, Hadi urged residents to remain calm while acknowledging the tireless dedication of the volcano observation post personnel. “My hope is that everyone remains calm. Our friends at the volcano observation posts are working extremely hard, as those at Level 3 and 4 volcanoes submit reports every six hours, while those monitoring normal and Level 2 volcanoes provide daily reports,” Hadi concluded, highlighting the rigorous reporting protocols that underpin Indonesia’s comprehensive volcanic monitoring system.
Summary
Mount Semeru remains at Level IV (Alert), as confirmed by Priatin Hadi Wijaya, Head of PVMBG. Due to this high alert, residents must avoid all activities within an 8-kilometer radius and a 20-kilometer sectoral exclusion zone extending southeast-south from the summit. PVMBG continuously evaluates these critical safety distances and is prepared to expand them if volcanic activity warrants.
Semeru is currently the sole volcano in Indonesia at Level IV, while Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki and Mount Merapi are at Level III (Standby). PVMBG actively monitors 69 active volcanoes, with various alert levels ranging from Level II (Watch) to normal. Residents are urged to remain calm, as observation post personnel diligently maintain a comprehensive volcanic monitoring system with rigorous reporting protocols.