IDNEWSNOW.COM, Jakarta – The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry’s geological agency on Monday officially elevated the alert status of Mount Awu in North Sulawesi from its initial Level I status to Level II following an increase in volcanic activities since October 2021.
“The growing activities of mount Awu are also marked by the increased volcanic earthquakes which indicates the existence of magma pressure in the mountain’s core,” said Ediar Usman, the agency’s secretary, on December 13, Antaranews reported.
He added that visual changes on the surface level have shown little changes as smoke from its crater has yet to be reported. However, Usman said pyroclastic materials and lava streams may be produced from the volcanic mountain’s crater that is 1,320 meters above sea level.
Other aspects that are a threat towards nearby communities include toxic gas emissions and undoubtedly cold lava rushing down from Awu’s crater when raining. Mount Awu is located at the Sangihe Island within North Sulawesi’s Sangihe Islands regency.
From September to December, the weather surrounding Mount Awu remains dynamic, ranging from clear skies to worse weathers. However, Usman said the main crater has yet to produce smoke.
Read: Alert Status for Mount Awu in North Sulawesi Raised to Level II
ANTARA
