Mount Ibu Eruptions Force Evacuations in West Halmahera, Thousands at Risk

TheIndonesia.co - At least 221 residents in West Halmahera District, North Maluku Province, have been evacuated due to continuous eruptions from Mount Ibu, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reported.

In a statement on Friday as accoding to Antara News Agency, BNPB's Head of Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center Abdul Muhari confirmed that the evacuees are from Sangaji Nyeku, a village situated 3.7 kilometers from the volcano's crater. They have taken refuge at the Tongotesungi Church in Akesibu Village, which local authorities have deemed safe from volcanic threats.

Muhari also mentioned plans to evacuate residents from five villages in the Tabaru sub-district on Friday, following recommendations from the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

The agency raised Mount Ibu's danger status to the highest level (IV) due to heightened volcanic activity from January 1-14. The evacuation is necessary as the villages are highly vulnerable to volcanic materials.

In coordination with local authorities, soldiers will assist in the evacuation. The agency's previous experience during a similar eruption in May 2024 estimates that the total number of evacuees could reach around 3,000.

The West Halmahera district government has declared a 14-day emergency response status to support ongoing efforts. As of Friday noon, Mount Ibu's eruptions continue, with ash columns reaching 700 meters above the volcano's peak. The Geological Agency has advised residents and tourists to stay at least five kilometers away from the volcano.