Bandung —

Increased volcanic activity has been observed at Mount Tangkubanparahu. The public and tourists are advised to be cautious of the possibility of a phreatic eruption, which could occur at any time.

The volcano, located on the border of West Bandung Regency and Subang Regency, has shown heightened volcanic activity in recent days. However, it currently remains at Level I (normal).

According to monitoring data from the Mount Tangkubanparahu observation post, between May 30 and June 1, 2025, there was a surge in volcanic earthquakes, particularly explosive earthquakes—ranging from 21 to 37 incidents per day—while low-frequency earthquakes reached 100 incidents.

This type of earthquake indicates fluid movement at shallow depths, which is often closely linked to an increase in gas explosions from the crater.

«As of now, the volcanic activity level of Mount Tangkubanparahu remains at Level I (normal), marked by white smoke explosions from the Queen Crater, ranging from thin to thick, with heights of 5-110 meters above the crater floor,» stated the Head of the Geological Agency on Monday (6/1/2025).

Currently, rainfall in the Mount Tangkubanparahu area remains high. Given that eruptions at this volcano are predominantly phreatic—triggered by water coming into contact with magma or hot material inside the volcano without magma reaching the surface.

Phreatic eruptions occur when groundwater, rainwater, or crater lakes meet hot volcanic material, leading to rapid heating and the formation of high-pressure steam.

«Despite the normal status, the public and tourists are advised not to approach the crater floor, linger in the active crater zone, or stay overnight in the area. If an increase in smoke density or a sharp gas odor is detected, residents should immediately move away to avoid toxic gas exposure or sudden potential eruptions,» the statement explained.

«Potential hazards of phreatic eruptions must be monitored, as they can occur without clear or significant volcanic symptoms. If a phreatic eruption occurs, it may be accompanied by ash rain and material ejection around the crater,» the statement continued.

Meanwhile, the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) also urges the public not to believe unofficial reports related to eruptions.

«Volcanic activity assessments will be conducted periodically or at any time if significant developments are observed. Residents near Mount Tangkubanparahu should remain calm but vigilant and always follow official guidance for safety,» the statement concluded.

Mount Tangkuban Parahu

Mount Tangkuban Parahu is an active stratovolcano located in West Java, Indonesia, known for its distinctive boat-like shape (its name means «Upturned Boat» in Sundanese). According to local legend, it is tied to the tragic folklore of Sangkuriang, who unknowingly fell in love with his mother, Dayang Sumbi, and attempted to build a boat overnight in a failed effort to marry her. Today, the volcano is a popular tourist destination, offering hiking trails, hot springs, and stunning crater views.

Bandung

Bandung, the capital of West Java, Indonesia, is a vibrant city known for its colonial architecture, cool climate, and thriving arts and culinary scene. Established as a Dutch colonial settlement in the 19th century, it became a key cultural and educational hub, earning the nickname *Parijs van Java* (Paris of Java) for its European-style cafes and boutiques. Today, Bandung is a popular destination for its historical landmarks, such as the Gedung Sate, and its creative street markets.

West Bandung Regency

West Bandung Regency (Kabupaten Bandung Barat) is a regency in West Java, Indonesia, established in 2007 after splitting from Bandung Regency. Known for its scenic highland landscapes, tea plantations, and volcanic attractions like Tangkuban Perahu, it blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, including Sundanese traditions. The area also supports agriculture and tourism, with historical ties to the Dutch colonial era’s plantation economy.

Subang Regency

Subang Regency is a region in West Java, Indonesia, known for its scenic landscapes, tea plantations, and cultural heritage. Historically, it was part of the Sunda Kingdom and later developed under Dutch colonial rule, which established its agricultural economy, particularly in tea and rubber production. Today, Subang is recognized for attractions like the Ciater Hot Springs and its role in promoting Sundanese traditions.

Queen Crater

Queen Crater is a small lunar impact crater located on the Moon’s near side, named after the English feminine name «Queen» as part of the International Astronomical Union’s naming conventions for lunar features. It was officially designated in 1976 and is situated in a region with numerous other small craters, formed by ancient meteorite impacts. The crater has no significant historical or exploratory missions associated with it but contributes to the study of lunar geology.

Geological Agency

The **Geological Agency** (Badan Geologi) of Indonesia is a government institution responsible for researching and managing the country’s geological resources, including minerals, energy, and natural disaster mitigation. Established during the Dutch colonial era in 1850 as the **Dienst van het Mijnwezen**, it evolved into its current form to support Indonesia’s geological mapping, volcanic monitoring, and earthquake studies. Today, it plays a key role in sustainable resource management and disaster risk reduction.

Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation

The **Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM)** is an Indonesian government agency responsible for monitoring volcanic activity, earthquakes, and other geological hazards. Established to mitigate risks from natural disasters, it plays a crucial role in early warning systems and public safety, particularly in Indonesia, a region prone to volcanic eruptions due to its position along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The center conducts research, provides hazard assessments, and collaborates with international agencies to enhance disaster preparedness.

PVMBG

«PVMBG» refers to the **Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation** (Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi) in Indonesia. Established to monitor volcanic activity and mitigate geological disasters, PVMBG plays a crucial role in researching volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis across the Indonesian archipelago, one of the most geologically active regions in the world. It provides early warnings and risk assessments to protect communities from natural hazards.