Mount Lokon volcanic activity in North Sulawesi

Mount Lokon in Tomohon, North Sulawesi, has experienced sustained volcanic activity characterized by fluctuating seismic patterns. In late September 2026, the Volcano Observation Post (PGA) Lokon reported a rise in shallow volcanic earthquakes and inflation tremors, leading authorities to set the volcano at Alert Level II. At that time, officials advised avoiding a 1.5-kilometer radius around the Tompaluan Crater.

By mid-October 2026, the volcano remained at Alert Level II. Geological Agency Head Lana Saria reported that activity between October 1 and October 15 was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes, including 189 inflation earthquakes and 12 deep volcanic earthquakes. Visual observations noted thin white smoke rising approximately 150 meters above the crater.

While seismic data showed an energy increase starting in late August, evaluations suggested the rise was linked to surface earthquakes rather than an escalation in volcanic intensity. Authorities continue to warn the public of risks regarding sudden phreatic eruptions, toxic gas releases, and potential lahars during heavy rainfall.