Mount Merapi, an active volcano located on the border between Central Java Province and Yogyakarta Special Region, has once again increased its potential danger. According to reports from the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), the potential danger at present is in the form of lava avalanches and hot clouds in the south-west sector, covering Boyong River up to a maximum distance of 5 km, Bedog, Krasak, and Bebeng Rivers up to a maximum distance of 7 km. Meanwhile, in the south-east sector, the potential danger covers Woro River up to a maximum distance of 3 km and Gendol River up to 5 km.

PVMBG also warns that if an explosive eruption occurs, volcanic material can be projected as far as 3 km from the summit. Therefore, the public is urged to refrain from any activities in the potential danger zone and to avoid travelling to those areas.

In addition, the public is also asked to anticipate disruptions caused by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Merapi and to be aware of the danger of lahars, especially during heavy rainfall around Mount Merapi. PVMBG continues to monitor the activity of Mount Merapi and if there are significant changes, the status of Mount Merapi activity will be reviewed immediately.

The public is expected to remain calm and follow the instructions of the authorities. For those who want to obtain the latest information about Mount Merapi, they can access the official PVMBG website at www.vsi.esdm.go.id or contact the PVMBG call center at 0811-111-6688 or 021-2220 5180.