Dukono volcano in Indonesia’s North Maluku province erupted on Sunday, sending grey ash 5,000 meters above its peak, as per the country’s Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation. The 1,087-meter volcano is currently on the second-highest alert level. Authorities have advised people to stay away from a 4-km radius of the crater and wear face masks to reduce respiratory risks from volcanic ash.
Earlier this month, Mount Dukono erupted, resulting in three fatalities. Fifteen individuals were found safe, including seven Singaporean nationals and eight Indonesians. Due to the volcanic activity and the victims being buried under volcanic material, the evacuation was delayed. The remains were taken to Tobelo Regional Hospital for identification.
The Badan Nasional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB), Indonesia’s National Agency for Disaster Countermeasure, expressed regret over climbing activities despite the Mount Dukono hiking route being closed since April 17. Abdul Muhari, Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Centre, emphasized the importance of disseminating information about the route closure to ensure public safety. Mount Dukono had previously erupted in February this year, leading to an aviation warning being issued by the country’s Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Centre.
