Mount Semeru Eruption Prompts Alert Level IV, Displaces Hundreds in East Java
Indonesia’s Mount Semeru has erupted, triggering the highest level of alert – Level IV – and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of residents from three villages in Lumajang Regency, East Java Province. The eruption, observed on Wednesday afternoon, November 19, 2025, at approximately 2:13 PM local time, has prompted a swift response from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB).
Villages Directly Impacted
According to a statement released by the BNPB, the affected villages are Supit Urang and Oro-Oro Ombo, both located in Pronojiwo District, and Penanggal Village in Candipuro District. A senior official stated that evacuation teams have been deployed to the area to assist residents in moving to safer locations.
Evacuation Efforts and Displacement Numbers
Initial reports indicate that approximately 300 residents have been temporarily displaced by the eruption. Evacuees are currently sheltering in two designated locations: the Oro-oro Ombo Village Hall, housing 200 people, and SD 2 Supiturang elementary school, providing refuge for 100 individuals. Additional residents have been evacuated to the Penanggal Village Hall, though authorities are still gathering comprehensive data on the full extent of the displacement.
Volcanic Activity and Hazards
The Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG) reports that hot cloud avalanches have been observed, extending up to 13 kilometers towards the southeast and south. One hot cloud was also observed extending less than 13 kilometers southeast of Besuk Kobokan. The sliding distance of the hot clouds has been confirmed as less than 13 km.
Official Recommendations and Safety Guidelines
The PVMBG has issued a series of urgent recommendations to protect the public. Residents are strongly advised to refrain from any activities within a 20-kilometer radius of the volcano’s peak in the southeast sector along Besuk Kobokan. Beyond this zone, individuals should maintain a distance of at least 500 meters from the riverbanks along Besuk Kobokan due to the potential for expanding hot clouds and lava flows.
Furthermore, the public is temporarily prohibited from entering an 8-kilometer radius of the crater due to the risk of volcanic projectiles. Residents are also urged to remain vigilant for potential hot clouds, lava avalanches, and lahars – destructive mudflows – along rivers and valleys originating from Mount Semeru, particularly along Besuk Kobokan, Besuk Bang, Besuk Kembar, and Besuk Sat. The potential for lahars in smaller tributaries of Besuk Kobokan also remains a significant concern.
Mount Semeru, situated on the border between Lumajang and Malang Regencies in East Java Province, continues to be closely monitored by authorities. The BNPB is coordinating with local disaster management agencies to provide ongoing support and assistance to affected communities.
