Geology Agency: Mount Marapi activity shows fluctuating pattern

Geology Agency, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) reports that activity at Mount Marapi in West Sumatra shows a fluctuating pattern. Based on monitoring over the last two weeks, the activity of Mount Marapi generally continues to show a fluctuating pattern, said Acting Head of the Geology Agency Lana Saria, in a written statement received in Padang on Thursday. This relates to the evaluation of Mount Marapi in Agam and Tanah Datar regencies for the period 16-28 February 2026. From monitoring and evaluation by the Geology Agency, the volcanic activity shows fluid or magma supply dynamics from depth that still allow eruptions. However, as long as magma supply does not significantly increase, the potential hazards are expected to be limited to ejected incandescent fragments and ash around the activity centre with the main reach within a three-kilometre radius from the Verbeek Crater. Moreover, eruptive materials along with ejecta can potentially become lahar or lahars when mixed with rainwater, especially in valleys or river floodplains that originate from the volcano’s summit. ‘In the crater area or summit of Mount Marapi there is also a potential hazard from toxic volcanic gases such as CO2, CO, SO2, and H2S,’ said Lana. Currently Mount Marapi remains at Level II or Waspada (Attention). The Volcano and Disaster Hazard Mitigation Centre (PVMBG) has issued several recommendations, including banning the public, tourists or visitors from activities within a three-kilometre radius of the activity centre (Verbeek Crater). PVMBG also reminds of the potential danger of cold lava, especially for residents along the river valleys that originate from the summit, particularly during rain or the monsoon season. Then, if it rains ash, residents are advised to wear nose and mouth masks to prevent respiratory tract disturbances.