Mount Ibu volcano erupts in North Maluku

Mount Ibu, located in West Halmahera, North Maluku, experienced multiple eruptions on Sunday, September 6, 2026. An early morning eruption occurred at approximately 04:55 WIT, sending an ash column roughly 400 meters above the crater peak.

A subsequent eruption was recorded later that night at 22:48 WIT, with an ash column reaching approximately 500 meters above the summit. This second event produced ash clouds ranging from white to grey with moderate to thick intensity, moving toward the north and northeast. Seismographic data for the night eruption showed a maximum amplitude of 28 mm and a duration of about 38 seconds.

The Geological Agency has placed Mount Ibu at Level II (Alert) status. Authorities have issued safety warnings advising residents and tourists to avoid all activities within a 2-kilometer radius of the active crater. Additionally, a sectoral exclusion zone of 3.5 kilometers is in effect toward the northern opening of the crater. Citizens are urged to use protective gear, such as masks and goggles, to mitigate the health risks of volcanic ashfall.