The Pagaralam Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) in South Sumatra issued a warning to climbers and tourists to stay at least a kilometer away from the Dempo crater due to increased volcanic activity.
The mountain is currently at Alert Level II, the agency stated.
“We urge climbers and tourists to avoid the Dempo crater area entirely,” Anjas Hariansyah, Head of the Emergency and Logistics Division, stated at the Pagaralam BPBD on Thursday.
While climbing is permitted in the lead-up to Indonesia’s Independence Day on August 17, all climbers must register at the Dempo Registration Center (Brigid) and adhere to safety guidelines to protect themselves from toxic gases emanating from the crater.
Muhammad Wafid, Head of the Geological Agency, echoed the warning, advising the public to avoid camping within a one-kilometer radius of the crater’s center and to stay clear of the north side, which is the primary direction of a potential eruption.
The agency has recorded increased volcanic activity at Mount Dempo, including eruptions, earthquakes, and changes in the crater’s lake color.
While there have been no significant events since August 8, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
The public is advised to rely solely on official information from the Geological Agency and to disregard any unverified reports.