Loud Booms Heard From Mount Semeru, Residents Urged to Stay Calm

Loud booming sounds have been heard emanating from Mount Semeru, Java's highest volcano, prompting the Lumajang Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) to urge the public not to panic but to remain vigilant. These booming sounds were captured on CCTV camera footage by the Lumajang BPBD in Supit Urang Village, Pronojiwo District, on Monday night, September 28, at 9:01 PM WIB, coinciding with eruptive activity and a rising column of smoke above the Jonggring Saloko Crater.

Sugiono, coordinator of the Curah Kobokan observation post, reported that such booming sounds have been increasingly heard over the past two to three months. He clarified that these sounds are often heard after a lull in Semeru's eruptive phase, which typically lasts for a significant period. However, he emphasized that the booming sounds alone do not indicate a worsening situation, as they are a normal part of volcanic activity.

Currently, Mount Semeru remains in Level III (Alert) status, so the public is advised to continue following safety recommendations, especially in the southeastern sector along Besuk Kobokan, extending up to 13 kilometers from the summit. Within 500 meters of the eruption center and 500 meters along riverbanks or riparian zones, the public is also cautioned against engaging in activities due to the potential for pyroclastic clouds, lahar flows, volcanic ash, and lava avalanches.