On May 16th, 2024, Indonesian authorities declared the highest alert level (Level 4) for Mount Ibu after weeks of escalating volcanic activity that began in late April. The 1,325-meter volcano, situated on Halmahera Island in North Maluku province, had been consistently spewing thick columns of gray ash and dark clouds as high as 5,000 meters into the atmosphere. This decision was based on both visual observations and instrumental data collected by the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), which indicated a significant increase in volcanic activity. As a precautionary measure, authorities established a 7-kilometer exclusion zone around the crater, urging residents and tourists to refrain from any activities within this radius due to the heightened risk of a potential lava eruption from the summit. Additionally, warnings were issued regarding the possibility of pyroclastic flows and lahars, which are fast-moving currents of hot gas, ash, and debris, as well as mudflows triggered by volcanic activity. The situation remains under close monitoring, with authorities prepared to take further action if necessary to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities.
UPDATE:
A significant escalation in activity has been observed at Ibu Volcano in the past few hours. Recent seismic data indicates a marked increase in seismicity, consistent with magma movement at shallow depths. In response to heightened volcanic unrest and imminent eruptive hazards, evacuations of are currently in progress.
Ibu Volcano, located on Halmahera Island in Indonesia, has exhibited a persistent pattern of eruptive activity since April 2008. This activity is primarily characterized by daily explosive ash emissions and plumes, often accompanied by observable thermal anomalies. The eruption at Ibu further intensified in early May 2024. Notably, on May 8th, a dense gray ash plume ascended 2 kilometers above the summit, generating lightning within the plume and drifting eastward and southeastward. The crater exhibited visible incandescence, and roaring sounds were audible in areas as distant as the Ibu observation post, situated 9 kilometers west.
