ESDM Warns Public of Potential Hazards from Mount Lokon in Tomohon

Manado (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has reminded the public in Tomohon City, North Sulawesi (Sulut), to be wary of the potential hazards posed by Mount Lokon, located in the area. “The current potential threats from Mount Lokon’s activity include the possibility of toxic gases emerging from the crater at any time, as well as sudden phreatic eruptions (eruptions caused by the contact of hot magmatic steam with hydrothermal water),” said Acting Head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria, in a report on Mount Lokon’s activity received in Manado on Saturday. Seismic activity at Mount Lokon during the period of 16-31 March 2026 was recorded as 42 blast earthquakes, one non-harmonic tremor, 43 shallow volcanic earthquakes, seven deep volcanic earthquakes, three local tectonic earthquakes, and 61 distant tectonic earthquakes. Based on visual observations of Mount Lokon’s activity, thin white smoke emissions were observed with a maximum height of about 25 metres above the crater. Seismic activity during that period was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes (VB), while deep volcanic earthquakes (VA) were rarely recorded. Volcanic activity, based on visual and seismic data, has not shown any increase. Based on a comprehensive analysis and evaluation up to 31 March 2026, Mount Lokon’s activity level remains at Level II (Waspada), with recommendations adjusted to the current potential hazards. Several recommendations that must be followed by the public, visitors, tourists, and climbers include prohibiting activities and approaches within a 1.5 kilometre radius of the Tompaluan crater (centre of activity) at Mount Lokon. If an eruption and ash rain occur, the public is advised to stay indoors, and if outside, to use nose and mouth protection (masks) and eye protection (goggles). Furthermore, be alert to the potential for lahars in rivers originating from the summit of Mount Lokon, especially during the rainy season.