Mount Semeru on the Indonesian island of Java was today (January 16) spewing huge clouds of smoke and ash up to 4.5 kilometres into the air.

The volcano remains at "Level 2 Alert" and the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation is conducting further evaluations.

People living in surrounding areas have been advised to remain "vigilant".

There has been a Volcano Hot Clouds (APG) of Mount Semeru with a sliding distance of approximately 4.5 kilometers on Saturday (16/1) afternoon at 17.24 WIB. According to a temporary visual observation report, it was seen that smoke slid to the southeast, thought to be coming from the Jonggring Kaloko crater, which was dark gray in large volume. As for the volcanic ash rain, it is estimated to be directed north, adjusting the wind direction. This incident was also confirmed by the Lumajang Regent, Thoriqul Haq, that the initial estimate of the location was in the area around Sumber Mujur Village and Curah Koboan Village. "Mount Semeru emits hot clouds. With a distance of 4.5 kilometers. The area around Sumber Mujur and Curah Koboan, is currently a hot cloud avalanche point," explained Regent Thoriqul. Regarding the status of the mountain, currently Mount Semeru is still at level II or 'Alert' and the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG) is conducting further evaluations. Meanwhile, the people living around Sumber Mujur Village and Curah Koboan Village and their surroundings need to be vigilant in facing potential disasters that can be caused. In this case, especially the people around the Kobokan River Basin (DAS) to stay alert in the face of high rainfall intensity, because it can trigger cold lava floods. Until this press release was released, the joint team between Ministries / Agencies is still in the process of developing information and there has been no statement of any casualties due to the incident.