Bandung –
Mount Tangkubanparahu is showing increased volcanic activity. The public and tourists are advised to be alert to the potential of a phreatic eruption that can occur at any time.
According to detikJabar, the volcano located on the border of West Bandung Regency and Subang Regency has experienced an increase in volcanic activity in recent days. However, currently, the volcano is still at Level I (Normal).
Based on data from the Tangkubanparahu Volcano Observation Post, the period from May 30 to June 1, 2025, recorded a surge in the number of volcanic earthquakes, particularly blast earthquakes ranging from 21 to 37 incidents per day, and low-frequency earthquakes recorded reaching 100 incidents.
This type of earthquake indicates fluid movement at shallow depths, which is usually closely related to the increased intensity of gas blasts from the crater.
“To date, the volcanic activity level of Mount Tangkubanparahu is still at Level I (Normal), marked by the activity of white smoke blasts from the Queen’s Crater with a thin to thick intensity, with a height of 5-110 meters above the crater floor,” said Head of Geological Agency Muhamad Wafid in his statement, Monday (1/6/2025).
Currently, he continued, the rainfall around Mount Tangkubanparahu is still high. Considering that the eruptions of Mount Tangkubanparahu are mostly dominated by phreatic eruptions caused by contact between water and magma or hot material inside the volcano, without any magma emerging to the surface.
Phreatic eruptions themselves occur when groundwater, rainwater, or crater lakes meet hot volcanic material, resulting in very rapid heating, producing steam with high pressure.
“Although the status is still normal, the public and tourists are advised not to approach the crater floor, not to linger in the active crater area, and not to stay overnight around the location. If an increase in smoke thickness is observed or a pungent gas smell is detected, residents are asked to immediately stay away to avoid the dangers of poisonous gas or sudden potential eruptions,” he explained.
“The potential danger of phreatic eruptions needs to be monitored, as they can occur without any clear or significant volcanic symptoms. If a phreatic eruption occurs, it can be accompanied by ash rain and material ejected around the crater,” Wafid continued.
Meanwhile, the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) also urges the public not to easily believe unofficial reports related to eruptions.
“Evaluation of the mountain’s activity will be conducted periodically or at any time if there is significant development. The community around Mount Tangkubanparahu is expected to remain calm but vigilant, and always follow directions from the authorities for everyone’s safety,” he said.
(dai/dai)
