Mount Semeru Eruption: Over 170 Climbers Rescued as Indonesia's Highest Peak Roars
Mount Semeru, Indonesia's tallest peak, recently erupted in East Java, sending plumes of ash and gas 13 kilometers into the sky and prompting authorities to declare the highest alert level. Despite the dramatic event, reassuring news has emerged that over 170 climbers, caught on the mountain during the sudden eruption, have been successfully brought to safety.
Safe Evacuation from Ranu Kumbolo
Indonesian officials confirmed that all 178 individuals, a group comprising climbers, porters, guides, and tourism staff, were safely evacuated from the Ranu Kumbolo camping area. This location, situated on the mountain's northern slope, proved to be a critical safe haven, lying outside the 8-kilometer primary danger zone from the crater and away from the path of the observed south-southeast hot cloud flow. While exposed to volcanic ash, the group managed to avoid direct pyroclastic flows, a testament to the safety protocols and the area's strategic position.
Local Impact and Trauma
The Wednesday afternoon eruption has left a visible impact, with volcanic ash covering the ground in villages like Supiturang. Local residents recounted harrowing experiences, describing how daylight turned to "midnight" due to the dense ashfall. Faiz Ramadhani, a 20-year-old resident, called the event "very horrible." The aftermath saw nearly 900 people seeking refuge in temporary shelters across schools, mosques, and village halls, many still grappling with the trauma of the sudden disaster. Nurul Yakin Pribadi, head of Supiturang village, expressed shock at the damage to his home, which was partially buried by a meter-high layer of volcanic material, highlighting the widespread damage to local infrastructure.
Semeru's Volatile History on the Ring of Fire
Mount Semeru, also known as Mahameru, is a formidable presence on the seismically active Pacific "Ring of Fire," an area prone to frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Indonesia itself is home to nearly 130 active volcanoes, the highest number globally. Semeru has a history of frequent and sometimes deadly eruptions, including a devastating event in 2021 that claimed 62 lives and buried several villages. Its ongoing activity necessitates continuous monitoring to mitigate risks to surrounding communities, transport infrastructure, and aviation. The rapid response and successful evacuation in this latest incident underscore the robust preparedness protocols in place for this frequently active volcano, ensuring community safety.