Volcanologists CNA spoke to said Mount Dukono has highly intense eruptive activity. It erupts every day, though eruptions generally occur in the crater area. Since 2008, eruptions plumes have ranged from 50m to as high as 10km.
“However, under certain conditions when pressure increases, larger explosive eruptions can occur, such as today,” said Heruningtyas Desi Purnamasari, head of the volcano team at the geological agency in Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.
“Today’s eruption reached a height of 10km, with incandescent material projected up to an estimated distance of 2km to 3km”.
Mount Dukono has been at Level II (Alert) in Indonesia’s four-tier alert system since 2008. Mount Ibu, also on Halmahera island, is at Level II, while Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java and which can erupt every five minutes, is at Level III. Level IV indicates the highest level of volcanic activity.
“If asked whether it can be predicted, Mount Dukono does erupt every day. Its activity has been considered elevated or abnormal since 2008,” Heruningtyas said.
“Our recommendation at Level II (Alert) is to avoid any activity within a 4km radius from the centre of activity. This means no human activity is recommended within that range, including climbing or other activities.”
DANGEROUS DRAW
Despite the risks, the eruptions are a draw for many visitors.
M Ichsan, who is a guide with travel agency Kelana Malut and an organiser of open trips to Mount Dukono, said he took 20 tourists to the mountain last month. The company holds at least two open trips every month, not including private trips, the 34-year-old told CNA.
“This mountain erupts every second – sometimes small, sometimes moderate, sometimes large,” he said.
“What attracts people to Dukono is its eruptions; that’s what visitors are looking for. They can see eruptions up close, even on a smaller scale. The scenery is stunning, making it one of the most beautiful mountains in North Maluku.”
