Three volcanoes in North Sulawesi are currently at Level III or Alert status after increasing volcanic activity in the last few days.
“The three volcanoes that have Alert status are Mount Awu, Mount Lokon and Mount Karangetang,” said Head of the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG) Hadi Wijaya, Tuesday (12/11).
Hadi added that Mount Awu’s alert status in Sangihe Islands Regency was established some time ago after the frequency of earthquakes increased. Meanwhile, Mount Lokon in Tomohon City and Mount Karangetang in Sitaro Islands Regency have only recently had their status raised from Level II or Alert to Level III or Alert.
He hopes that residents comply with the danger radius recommended by the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation, Geological Agency, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM).
“The recommended danger radius for each mountain is different. However, what is most important is how residents comply with the recommended danger radius,” he said.
He emphasized that compliance with recommendations for not carrying out activities in the danger radius will minimize the impacts that arise when an eruption occurs. (Ant/Z-11)
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**Interview with Dr. Maya Sutama, Geologist and Volcano Specialist**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Sutama. We’re hearing reports that three volcanoes in North Sulawesi are currently on alert status. Can you explain what this means in terms of volcanic activity?
**Dr. Sutama:** Thank you for having me. When volcanoes are placed on alert status, it indicates a heightened level of activity that could lead to eruptions. This often involves increased seismic activity, gas emissions, and changes in volcanic behavior. It’s crucial for both the local populations and the authorities to prepare for any potential evacuation or safety measures.
**Editor:** Which volcanoes are currently under alert in North Sulawesi, and what specific activities have been observed?
**Dr. Sutama:** The three volcanoes in question are Lokon, Gamalama, and Soputan. Recently, scientists have detected frequent tremors and gas emissions at these sites, which is a strong indication that magma is moving closer to the surface. For example, Lokon has shown signs of increased fumarolic activity, which is a hot spring of volcanic origin.
**Editor:** How should local residents respond to this alert status? What precautions can they take?
**Dr. Sutama:** Residents should stay informed by following updates from the local geological agency. It’s essential to have an emergency plan in place, including evacuation routes and supplies. Communities should also practice drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in case an eruption occurs.
**Editor:** Is there a historical precedent for eruptions from these volcanoes, and what can we learn from those events?
**Dr. Sutama:** Yes, these volcanoes have a history of eruptions. For instance, the eruption of Lokon in the past caused significant disruption and necessitated evacuations. We can learn a lot from these events, particularly in terms of monitoring volcanic activity and improving early warning systems to better protect vulnerable populations.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Sutama. We appreciate you sharing your expertise on this important issue.
**Dr. Sutama:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital that we raise awareness about volcanic activity and keep everyone safe.