JAKARTA, Indonesia — A sudden eruption of Mount Dukono claimed the lives of three hikers on the island of Halmahera, officials reported. This tragic event happened when about 20 climbers ignored safety warnings and began their ascent despite the volcano’s high alert status.
At 7:41 a.m. local time, Dukono erupted violently, sending a towering ash cloud up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) into the sky. The Geological Agency of Indonesia recorded the eruption lasting over 16 minutes.
“They knew climbing was banned,” said North Halmahera police chief Erlichson Pasaribu. “But they went anyway.”
Rescue teams responded to an emergency signal sent from the mountain. Unfortunately, three climbers died on the spot—two from Singapore and one from Indonesia. By Friday afternoon, 14 climbers, including seven foreigners, had been safely evacuated, though five were injured.
Efforts to recover the bodies of the deceased have faced delays due to ongoing eruptions and unsafe conditions. The Center for Volcanology has made it clear that there is a no-go zone within 2.5 miles of Dukono’s crater, highlighting dangers like volcanic bombs and toxic gases. Authorities believe the climbers were violating this established boundary.
Despite clear warnings and signs, many climbers feel compelled to venture up the volcano, often motivated by a desire to share their adventures online. “Social media has made climbing more appealing, even if it’s dangerous,” Pasaribu commented.
Mount Dukono is among Indonesia’s most active volcanoes and has erupted frequently since 1933. Situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” Indonesia is home to over 120 active volcanoes, making it a hotspot for volcanic activity.
Recent statistics show Dukono has had an alarming uptick in eruptions since late March, averaging about 95 eruptions daily. Lana Saria from Indonesia’s Geological Agency noted that Friday’s eruption was particularly intense. She warned that ash clouds have been moving northward, posing health risks and disrupting daily life in areas like the town of Tobelo.
Authorities have cautioned about potential mudflows during heavy rains, which could be disastrous for nearby communities. With monitoring ongoing, officials urge residents and tourists to heed warnings and stay away from restricted areas.
