Banda Aceh
Indonesian authorities have raised the alert level for Mount Bur Ni Telong volcano in Aceh province to its second-highest level following a spike in volcanic activity and earthquakes, officials said Wednesday.
The 2,624-meter stratovolcano, located in Bener Meriah regency, recorded at least seven earthquakes on Tuesday evening, which were felt up to five kilometers away. Seismographs also detected seven shallow volcanic quakes, 14 deep quakes, and two tectonic tremors, according to Lana Saria, acting head of the Geological Agency at the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry.
Based on visual and instrumental monitoring, scientists decided to raise the alert from the third to the second-highest level late Tuesday. The move reflects ongoing concern about increased magma movement and potential eruption risks.
Saria explained that aftershocks from local tectonic events can easily trigger volcanic activity. She noted that heightened seismic activity around Mount Bur Ni Telong has been observed since July, with more intense and shallow tremors recorded over the past two months.
Authorities are closely monitoring the volcano and advising residents and visitors in nearby areas to remain vigilant. Emergency preparedness measures have been strengthened, including evacuation plans and public warnings, to ensure safety in case of an eruption.
Mount Bur Ni Telong is one of several active volcanoes in Indonesia, a country located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic activity frequently leads to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Scientists continue to study the volcano’s behavior to predict potential hazards and mitigate risks to local communities.
