Semeru Erupts: A Day the Sky Turned Dark

 

Lumajang, November 2025 — Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on Java Island, erupted without warning and sent a towering column of ash 1,000 meters into the sky. Morning skies darkened in minutes as thick volcanic ash rolled over the slopes.

But amid the chaos, a remarkable outcome emerged: all 170 climbers on the mountain were safely evacuated.

A Calm Morning Turned Grey Within Minutes

The eruption began with a faint rumble, followed by light tremors felt around the summit area. Within moments, the Jonggring Saloka crater unleashed a forceful burst of ash, prompting climbers to immediately descend.

Local residents, familiar with Semeru’s unpredictable temperament, quickly secured their homes, gathered their families, and prepared for a possible evacuation.

Authorities from PVMBG confirmed that rising magma pressure—building since the major 2021 eruption—triggered the sudden activity.

170 Climbers Rescued in a Race Against Time

Thanks to swift coordination between guides, rescuers, BPBD officers, and local volunteers, all climbers on Semeru’s hiking routes were guided to safety.

This successful evacuation highlights increasing preparedness and improved emergency response around one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes.

Danger Still Looms Around Semeru

Authorities raised the alert status and issued warnings for several high-risk zones, especially along the Besuk Kobokan river path — a known route for pyroclastic flows and lahars.

Residents are urged to:

• Stay out of the designated hazard radius

• Wear masks due to drifting volcanic ash

• Avoid river channels connected to Semeru

• Follow all PVMBG instructions without delay

Meanwhile, all hiking and tourism activities near Semeru have been temporarily suspended.

Resilience: The Spirit of East Java’s Communities

For the people of Lumajang and Malang, Mount Semeru is both a symbol of pride and a reminder of nature’s power. Each eruption reshapes their routines—but never their resilience.

As ash settles and the mountain rumbles on, one thing remains constant: the community’s unwavering strength, unity, and hope.

Sources

• Al Jazeera – Climbers at Indonesia’s Mount Semeru safe after sudden volcanic eruption.

• Media Indonesia – Gunung Semeru Kembali Meletus, Letusan Terbaru Sejak 2021.

• ABC News – Indonesia raises alert for Mount Semeru to highest level.

• ANTARA News – Gunung Semeru erupsi dengan letusan 1 km.