Volcanic earthquakes at Mount Sorikmarapi surge, alert status raised

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has reported a significant increase in seismic activity at Mount Sorikmarapi in Mandailing Natal Regency, North Sumatra, which is now at Level II (Alert) status.

Acting Head of the Geological Agency Lana Saria said in Jakarta on Tuesday that the surge in activity was marked by an increase in Deep Volcanic Earthquakes recorded on Saturday (18 July).

“The seismic activity of Mount Sorikmarapi has increased significantly, preceded by the recording of Local Tectonic Earthquakes and Felt Earthquakes,” she said.

The PVMBG team at the Geological Agency reported that based on observations on 18 July 2026 from 00.00 to 18.30 WIB, a total of 40 Deep Volcanic Earthquakes, five Local Tectonic Earthquakes, one Felt Earthquake at I on the MMI scale, and two Distant Tectonic Earthquakes were recorded.

Although there has been an increase in seismic activity at depth, Lana said the seismograph at the Mount Sorikmarapi Observation Post has so far not recorded any shallow or surface earthquake activity.

To anticipate potential hazards, the Geological Agency has recommended that residents and tourists not enter the area within a 1.5-kilometre radius of the main crater or the summit of Mount Sorikmarapi.

“The public is also urged not to approach the Sibangor Tonga Crater, the Sibangor Julu Crater, or other active craters to avoid the threat of mud eruptions and toxic gas, which can occur suddenly,” she said.