Mount Ibu erupts with 1,000-meter ash column

Mount Ibu in West Halmahera, North Maluku, erupted on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 10:58 WIT. The eruption produced a volcanic ash column reaching approximately 1,000 meters above the peak, or about 2,325 meters above sea level.

The ash column was observed to be grey with medium intensity, moving toward the northeast. Seismographic data recorded a maximum amplitude of 28 millimeters with an eruption duration of 56 seconds.

The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) has advised the public, tourists, and visitors to avoid activities within a 2-kilometer radius of the active crater. Additionally, a sectoral restriction of 3.5 kilometers is in effect toward the northern opening of the crater. Residents outside the immediate danger zone are advised to use masks and eye protection in the event of ash rain.