Mount Iya in Ende Increases Volcano Alert Level to Standby

SEAToday.com, Jakarta-The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) raised the volcano alert level of Mount Iya in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), from Level II (Alert) to III (Standby) starting November 5, 2024, at 6 PM central Indonesian time.

Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry’s Geological Agency Head Muhammad Wafid unveiled that this decision was made due to the increasing volcanic activity in the last few days.

Furthermore, a monitoring report from early October to November 4 shows significant signs of seismicity, recording 28 harmonic tremor earthquakes, 77 non-harmonic tremor earthquakes, and 173 deep volcanic earthquakes.

Besides, they have been detecting an escalation of shallow earthquake activity since October 16 and deep volcanic earthquakes since August, both of which indicate the presence of strong pressure due to the magma ascent.

“This shows that magma pressure is getting stronger and can trigger an eruption at any time,” said Muhammad Wafid.

Meanwhile, crater smoke with medium to thick intensity was seen reaching a height of 300 meters from the top of the mountain.

PVMBG also urged the surrounding community to be vigilant and avoid activities around the peak area of this mountain.

Writer: Adilah Izzatuddiny