Mount Semeru erupted on Wednesday (November 19) afternoon, producing a pyroclastic flow reaching 13 kilometers. The Geological Agency subsequently raised the volcano’s status from Level III (Alert) to Level IV (Warning) along the Lumajang-Malang border.
“We immediately deployed personnel to the site to assist with handling pyroclastic flows in coordination with local BPBD and government units, and the military-police,” Head of BPBD East Java, Gatot Soebroto, said here on Thursday.
BPBD East Java also delivered logistics aid for residents affected by the eruption at several evacuation sites.
East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa, who received reports from BPBD, urged residents near Mount Semeru to evacuate to designated shelters immediately.
“The safety of the community is our top priority. With Semeru’s status elevated to Level IV, we urge all residents to obey restrictions in the danger zone and evacuate immediately if instructed by field officers,” the governor said.
BPBD East Java’s logistics team provided respirator masks, safety goggles, medical masks, KN95 masks, gloves, blankets, fire-resistant shoes, supplementary nutrition, ready-to-eat meals, chainsaws, and communication equipment.
Meanwhile, Lumajang District Head Indah Amperawati emphasized vigilance despite current activity being relatively stable. The statement was made to reassure residents while emphasizing the importance of continuous monitoring.
“Semeru is relatively safe now, but vigilance remains the priority. All local government units, BPBD, and field officers continue monitoring conditions to ensure residents’ safety,” Amperawati said during an inspection at the Pronojiwo Sub-district Disaster Response Post.
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Translator: Zumrotun, Kenzu
Editor: Arie Novarina
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