Warning lifted for Burne Tilong volcano in Indonesia after earthquakes
Indonesian authorities have officially raised the alert level for Mount Por Ne Tilong volcano, located in Aceh province in the far west of the country, to level two (caution), following a worrying series of increased activity and volcanic tremors that have recently struck the area. This measure is a precautionary step to protect local residents and tourists in the areas surrounding the mountain.
Details of observed seismic activity
In a press statement, Lana Sarya, acting head of the Geological Agency at the Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, explained the technical details of the decision. Sarya stated, "The stratovolcano, which is 2,624 meters high and located in the Bener Meria region of Aceh, recorded significant activity, including at least seven earthquakes on Tuesday evening." She confirmed that residents within a five-kilometer radius of the mountain clearly felt these tremors.
The data from seismometers also recorded seven surface volcanic tremors, in addition to 14 deep tremors and two tremors in the Earth's crust, indicating subterranean movements of magma.
Warning signs and potential risks
Based on the results of continuous visual and mechanical monitoring, which showed an increase in indicators of volcanic activity at Mount Por Ne Tilong, scientists and experts decided to raise the alert level from level three to level two. Saria noted that "the aftershocks that followed the tremors in the Earth's crust indicate the ease with which lava activity can be triggered by tectonic disturbances," adding that this increase in seismic activity began last July, but has intensified and become significantly closer to the surface over the past two months.
Although visual observations have shown that the volcano's crater remains clear and is not emitting heavy smoke so far, the agency has strongly warned of the possibility of a sudden eruption. The warning includes the potential for phreatic eruptions and the release of toxic and dangerous volcanic gases, especially near active steam vents.
Indonesia and the Ring of Fire: A Geological Context
To understand the nature of this event, one must consider Indonesia's geographical and geological context. The country lies at the heart of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region characterized by intense seismic and volcanic activity resulting from the convergence of continental tectonic plates. Indonesia has more than 120 active volcanoes, making it one of the world's most volcanically active countries.
Mount Por Ne Tilong is one of the stratovolcanoes that require careful monitoring, as Indonesia’s history is full of volcanic eruptions that have affected not only the local level, but some of them have extended their impact regionally and globally throughout history, making any unusual activity a focus of attention for scientists and competent authorities to ensure the safety of lives and property.
