Mount Lokon remains at Alert Level II in North Sulawesi

Mount Lokon in Tomohon, North Sulawesi, is currently at Alert Level II (Waspada). The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has advised the public and tourists to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 kilometers from the Tompaluan crater due to the risk of sudden phreatic eruptions and the release of toxic gases.

Geological Agency Head Lana Saria reported that volcanic activity between October 1 and October 15, 2026, was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes. During this period, officials recorded 189 inflation earthquakes, 12 deep volcanic earthquakes, three felt earthquakes on the I MMI scale, and 52 distant tectonic earthquakes. Visual observations show thin white smoke rising approximately 150 meters above the crater.

While seismic data indicated an energy increase starting August 24, 2026, through October 15, evaluations suggest this rise stems from surface earthquakes rather than a significant escalation in volcanic intensity. Residents near riverbeds originating from the peak are also cautioned to remain vigilant against potential lahars during heavy or prolonged rainfall.