Inp.polri.go.id - Ternate. Mount Ibu in West Halmahera, North Maluku, erupted on Sunday (22/12/2024) at 5.11 pm local time, releasing a volcanic ash column soaring 1,200 meters above its summit, according to the Ibu Volcano Observation Post (PGA).
"The eruption generated a white to gray ash column with moderate to thick intensity, drifting northeast and east," said PGA officer Ridwan Djalil in a statement, as quoted by antaranews.com..
The seismic activity was recorded with a maximum amplitude of 28 mm and a duration of 1 minute and 19 seconds.
The 1,325-meter volcano remains under Alert Level III (Siaga), urging caution among nearby residents and tourists. Authorities advised against activities within a 4-kilometer radius and a sectoral extension of up to 5.5 kilometers north of the crater.
In case of ashfall, residents are encouraged to wear masks and protective eyewear. Officials also called for public calm, urging people to avoid spreading false information and to follow government directives.
Local authorities are coordinating with the Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation Center in Bandung for continuous updates.
(mg/inp/pr/nm)