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Mount Semeru Erupts Powerfully, Sending Ash to 16.5 km as Pyroclastic Flows Sweep Southeast Valleys

PVMBG enforces river‑valley exclusion zones under a Red aviation alert.

Overview

  • The Darwin VAAC confirmed ash reaching about 16.5 km (54,000 ft) above sea level at 09:20 UTC based on Himawari‑8 satellite data.
  • Large pyroclastic density currents followed the Besuk Kobokan drainage, starting around 14:30 WIB with early runouts near 5 km and later reports suggesting pulses up to 15 km.
  • Satellite infrared analysis indicated continuous summit emissions with ash dispersing toward the north and northwest despite meteorological cloud.
  • Authorities maintained an 8 km exclusion along Besuk Kobokan, a 2.5 km summit-radius restriction, and additional warnings for adjacent valleys and riverbanks due to PDCs and lahar risk.
  • Local reports described evacuations as activity continued through the afternoon, with ground footage showing ash‑rich flows moving down established channels.