5 volcanoes in Indonesia on alert level III status because of growing unrest

September 14, 2011 – INDONESIA - Indonesia, situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, has about 130 active volcanoes. Now few of them even have seismic activities. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has the data that there are 21 volcanoes whose status is above normal-active. “The five volcanoes of alert status (level III) are Mt Tambora, Mt Anak Ranakah, Mt Papandayan, Mt Karangetang and Mt Lokon,” said BNPB Head of Data Center Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, Tuesday. He explained that the status of Mt Tambora and Mt Anak Ranakah was elevated almost in the same time, on September 8, 2011. In addition to those of alert status, 16 volcanoes in Indonesia whose status is level II namely Soputan, Ibu, Lewotobi Perempuan, Marapi, Bromo, Dieng, Gamkonora, Merapi, Sinabung, Talang, Kerinci, Krakatau, Semeru, Sangeangapi, Gamalama and Dukuno. The Center of Geologic Volcanology and Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG), which continued monitoring volcanoes in Indonesia, recommended the people to remain alert as the activities of the five alert-flagged volcanoes increased. “The residents and visitors are not allowed to do any activity there,” Sutopo went on. As regards Mt Tambora, the disaster-prone zone was set two kilometers from Papandayan crater area. For Mt Lokon, the sterile zone was set three kilometers from Tompaluan crater. Meanwhile, for Mt Karangetang, hiking the peak more than 500 meters above sea level is prohibited. “The residents of west Mini village (Kali Beha Barat) and south Kopi village (Kali Kahetang) should be more alert of the danger of hot clouds and lava flow,” said Sutopo. He added that his party continued coordinating with the regional disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) to elevate alertness and socialize it. “The anticipation of the worst possibilities out of the volcano eruption is being prepared. The evacuation routes are ready.” -Viva News

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