Mount Marapi Erupts 26 Seconds Amid Heavy Rain, Heightened Alert

RRI.CO.ID, Padang - Mount Marapi in West Sumatra remains in a state of heightened volcanic unrest following a 26-second eruption recorded on Tuesday afternoon, March 24, 2026.

The event occurred amidst heavy rainfall in the region. It has prompted authorities to reinforce safety protocols for communities nestled along the slopes of the 2,891-meter volcano spanning the Agam and Tanah Datar Regencies.

The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) reported that the eruption took place at 2:26 p.m. Jakarta time. However, the exact scale of the volcanic ash column remained obscured from visual observation due to dense cloud cover surrounding the peak.

As reported by Antara, despite the lack of visual confirmation, seismic data provided a clear picture of the subterranean activity.

"An eruption of Mount Marapi occurred at 2:26 p.m. Jakarta time, recorded on the seismogram with a maximum amplitude of 28.6 millimeters and a duration of approximately 26 seconds," said Ilhamdi Saputra, an officer at the Mount Marapi Observation Post (PGA), in Padang on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

Currently maintained at Level II (Caution), Mount Marapi is subject to strict exclusion zones. The PVMBG has prohibited all public activity within a three-kilometer radius of the Verbeek Crater, the volcano's primary center of activity.

The risk level is further complicated by local weather patterns. Earlier on Tuesday morning, March 24, 2026, officials noted significant rainfall around the summit, which significantly raises the threat of cold lava flows.

Authorities have specifically warned residents living near riverbanks originating from the peak to remain vigilant, as rain-driven lahars can occur suddenly during the wet season. To mitigate health risks, the public is advised to use masks covering the nose and mouth if ashfall reaches residential areas to prevent respiratory issues.

Furthermore, the observation post urged the public to maintain a calm atmosphere and refrain from spreading unverified information or "hoax" narratives that could incite panic. By adhering to official recommendations, the local administration aims to ensure community safety while monitoring the volcano’s unpredictable activity. ***