1Berita English – Mount Marapi in West Sumatra erupted again, emitting explosions and thunderous sounds on Saturday night (1/6).

The Head of Nagari (Village) Bukit Batabuah, Candung District, Agam Firdaus, revealed the details of the situation, including at least three loud explosions heard from Mount Marapi since 8:45 PM.

“Our residents witnessed a reddish light coming out of the summit crater of Marapi. The residents were frightened because there was no early warning of when the eruption would occur,” said Agam Firdaus on Sunday (1/7).

He mentioned that besides the light resembling sparks, Mount Marapi also produced a roaring sound that lasted for a considerable period.

“The roaring sound was heard for about 10 minutes, and some residents felt vibrations like an earthquake during the explosions. House doors were shaking. As the village head, I am concerned about the safety of residents if the eruption continues,” he said.

Therefore, Firdaus continues to urge residents located near Mount Marapi to remain vigilant. On the other hand, he expressed regret over the lack of information regarding the developments in Marapi’s condition and situation provided to the residents.

“Until now, the information we received is only after the volcano erupted. If possible, we request updates when Marapi’s status continues to increase. This way, we can take precautionary measures,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Volcano Observatory (PGA) recorded more than 100 eruptions since the initial eruption period in December 2023.

“Until now, Mount Marapi has erupted 113 times since Sunday (12/3) in 2023. In December 2023, there were 107 eruptions, and six times in 2024, including three times on Saturday (1/6),” said PGA officer Teguh Purnomo.

In their advisory, following Regulation of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources number 15 of 2011, residents in settlements are asked to remain calm because Mount Marapi is currently at the alert level, allowing people to continue their activities by increasing vigilance.

“People are asked not to engage in activities around the crater or within a three-kilometer radius. Do not spread false narratives (hoaxes) and do not be provoked by unclear sources of information. The community is expected to always follow the guidance of the local government,” he said.

Mount Marapi, located in the Agam and Tanah Datar regencies, has been erupting since Sunday, December 3, 2023, causing 24 fatalities among climbers trapped during the eruption.