BNPB: Mount Sinabung eruption recovery transition status remains active
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that the Emergency-to-Recovery Transition Status for the Mount Sinabung eruption disaster in Karo Regency, North Sumatra, remains active for 90 days from 8 July to 5 October 2026.
Acting Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information and Communication Centre, Berton SP Panjaitan, said in Jakarta on Monday that the handling status, based on Decree Number 361/559/BPBD/2026, serves as the primary basis for cross-agency coordination amid the latest volcanic activity dynamics.
“It remains in force for 90 days, from 8 July to 5 October 2026,” he said.
Berton explained that the recovery transition period runs alongside strict field condition evaluations, following the decision by the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) of the Geological Agency to raise Mount Sinabung’s activity level from Level II (Alert) to Level III (Standby) on Monday (31/8) at 12.30 WIB.
To support disaster impact handling during this transition period, the Karo Regency Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has distributed masks to residents affected by volcanic ash and urged communities in danger zones to move immediately to safe locations away from potential follow-up eruptions.
Berton stressed that mitigation measures continue to be adjusted by expanding the safe radius boundaries, namely prohibiting community activities within a 3-kilometre radius from the summit and a 6-kilometre sectoral radius to the south-southeast, including settlements included in the relocation programme.
The BNPB Operations Control Directorate confirmed that there have so far been no reports of casualties or displaced persons, as the joint task force team remains on site to conduct data collection and assessment of aid requirements.
“Be alert to the potential for cold lava flows in the Sinabung river. Residents in areas affected by volcanic ash are also urged to wear masks or respiratory protection, remain calm, and follow directions from the local government and authorised agencies,” he said.