Mount Dempo erupts, ejecting ash 3.5 km

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Mount Dempo in Pagar Alam, South Sumatra, underwent an eruption with the ash column observed reaching 3,500 metres (3.5 km) above the summit, as reported by the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources on Wednesday afternoon. Acting Head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria, stated in a release received in Jakarta on Wednesday that the eruption produced an ash column height of 3,500 metres above the summit or approximately 6,673 metres above sea level. Although the eruption featured a fairly high ash column, the Geological Agency noted that there have been no reports of accompanying rumbling sounds from the volcanic activity so far. Currently, Mount Dempo’s activity level remains at Status Level II (Alert). The Geological Agency continues to monitor fluctuations in the volcano’s activity to provide the latest information to local authorities and the public. In connection with this increased activity, the government has issued recommendations for the public, visitors, and tourists not to approach or engage in overnight stays or camping at the centre of the Marapi - Mount Dempo crater activity. This prohibition on activities is set within a one-kilometre radius of the crater centre, with an extension to two kilometres in the direction of the northern crater opening. These restrictions are in place because the crater is the centre of the eruption and a source of dangerous volcanic gases. The public is advised to remain calm but vigilant against potential threats from volcanic gases that could endanger lives and to always follow instructions from local authorities.