Four Volcanoes, One Satellite Watch
Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that volcanic ash from four active volcanoes is currently spreading across different parts of the archipelago. The agency reached this conclusion through analysis of RGB imagery from the Himawari-9 weather satellite, according to details first reported by Tempo.
BMKG Director of Public Meteorology Ida Pramuwardani identified ash dispersal from Mount Dukono, Mount Ibu, and Mount Semeru. A fourth volcano, Mount Lewotolo, was reported by the Geological Agency but could not be confirmed by satellite imagery.
Where the Ash Is Going
The ash plumes are moving in different directions depending on the volcano:
- Mount Dukono and Mount Ibu (both in North Maluku): ash is drifting northeastward, affecting North Halmahera Regency, the waters southwest of Morotai Island, and West Halmahera Regency.
- Mount Semeru (East Java): ash is moving southeastward, covering parts of Lumajang Regency and nearby coastal waters.
Mount Ibu: The Most Active Concern Right Now
Of the four volcanoes, Mount Ibu in West Halmahera is the one drawing the most immediate attention. It is currently rated at Alert Level II by the Geological Agency, and it erupted on the morning of September 19, 2026, at 5:49 a.m. local time. The eruption produced a gray ash column roughly 400 meters above the summit, leaning eastward. Seismograph data recorded a maximum amplitude of 28.0 mm over an eruption duration of 45 seconds.
The Geological Agency has set the following safety perimeters around Mount Ibu:
- A 2-kilometer exclusion zone around the active crater for all residents and visitors.
- A 3.5-kilometer sectoral warning zone extending toward the northern crater opening.
Authorities are also advising anyone outdoors in affected areas to wear masks and protective eyewear to guard against ashfall. For the latest ground-level updates, the Geological Agency points to the West Halmahera Regency Government and the Gam Ici Volcano Observation Post as the authoritative local sources.
Practical Guidance for Travelers
If you are planning to visit North Halmahera, West Halmahera, or Lumajang Regency in the near term, check current alert levels before finalizing any itinerary. Ash dispersal can shift quickly with wind changes, and even low-level ashfall affects air quality, visibility on roads and waterways, and the comfort of outdoor activities. Carry a mask rated for fine particulates, not just a cloth face covering.
For travelers already in the region, avoid unverified social media reports and follow official channels from the Geological Agency and local government offices.
Why It Matters for Hosts
Independent operators running guesthouses, dive resorts, or trekking services in North Maluku or East Java should build a simple volcanic activity protocol into their guest communications. This means knowing the current alert level for the nearest active volcano, having a stock of masks to offer guests, and being ready to adjust or cancel outdoor excursions on short notice. Proactively sharing official monitoring links with guests at check-in builds trust and reduces the risk of guests relying on inaccurate information circulating online. Keeping an eye on BMKG satellite updates is a low-effort habit that can make a real difference to guest safety and satisfaction.
Details in this post were first reported by Tempo on September 19, 2026.
First reported by en.tempo.co.