Stay vigilant to sudden phreatic eruptions that are not preceded by observable volcanic activities.
Bandung, W Java (ANTARA) - Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry's Geological Agency recorded a fire glow phenomenon at the Ecoma Crater on Mount Tangkuban Parahu on the border of West Bandung and Subang districts in West Java Province.

Acting Head of the Geological Agency Muhammad Wafid noted in a statement on Monday that the phenomenon was captured by infrared surveillance cameras (CCTVs) on February 9-10, 2023.

"On February 9, 2023, according to the screenshots of the CCTVs at Mount Tangkuban Parahu, there was a fire glow inside the Ecoma Crater. Thus, on February 10, 2023, the Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Agency (PVMBG) sent a (inspection) team," he noted.

He remarked that the camera captured images of the fire glow from February 9 at 6:30 p.m. Western Indonesia Standard Time (WIB) to February 10 at 3 a.m. WIB.

However, when the team observed the condition of the volcano on February 10 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. WIB, no fire glow was visible in the crater, the acting Geological Agency head stated.

Wafid believes that the fire glow might be caused by a flow of fluid that rose to the surface, thereby causing the temperature in the crater to rise.

The flow of the fluid could cause a reaction with the surrounding rocks, especially with the sulfur deposits around the crater, causing a glow of fire, as monitored by the infrared CCTVs, he explained.

However, he confirmed that the phenomenon was not caused by rising magma.

Hence, after a comprehensive investigation conducted on Monday, Wafid emphasized that the status of Mount Tangkuban Parahu is still at Level I, or "Normal."

Thus, he appealed to the public to not believe false information regarding the eruption of Mount Tangkuban Parahu and to go about their daily activities as usual.

Moreover, he appealed to the local community and tourists to avoid venturing close to active craters of the volcano.

"Stay vigilant to sudden phreatic eruptions that are not preceded by observable volcanic activities," he added.

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Translator: Bagus Rizaldi, Uyu Liman
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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