Mount Dukono Erupts 76 Times in a Single Day: Alert Level II Maintained

RRI.CO.ID, Ternate - The Mount Dukono Observation Post (PGA) in North Halmahera, North Maluku, reported a significant surge in volcanic activity on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Data from the previous 24-hour period reveals that the volcano erupted 76 times, sending thick columns of ash high into the atmosphere.

An officer at the PGA Dukono, Bambang Sugiono said that the ash columns reached heights between 800 and 1,400 meters above the peak. The crater smoke appeared white to gray with moderate to thick intensity, drifting primarily toward the northwest.

The 1,087-meter-high volcano currently remains at Level II (Alert) as authorities continue to monitor its heightened state. Seismographs have recorded intense activity accompanying the recent eruptions, specifically noting an eruption count of 76 instances within a single day.

During these events, the seismic amplitude ranged from 6 to 34 mm, with individual eruptions lasting between 19.33 and 90.65 seconds. Furthermore, continuous tremors were recorded throughout the period, showing a dominant microtremor amplitude of 4 mm.

Authorities have issued a strict warning for residents and tourists to avoid all activities within a four-kilometer radius of the Malupang Warirang Crater. Because volcanic ash dispersal depends heavily on wind speed and direction, the affected areas can shift unpredictably.

"Communities around Mount Dukono are asked to prepare masks to avoid the threat of volcanic ash to the respiratory system," Bambang Sugiono advised, as quoted by Antara.

Local weather conditions at the peak have fluctuated between clear skies and rain, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 31°C. Given the periodic nature of the eruptions, residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow official updates from the PGA. ***