Based on satellite and wind model data, the Darwin VAAC reported that during 1-2 January ash plumes from Dukono rose to 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NE, E, and SW. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to remain outside of the 2-km exclusion zone.

Geological Summary. The Dukono complex in northern Halmahera is on an edifice with a broad, low profile containing multiple peaks and overlapping craters. Almost continuous explosive eruptions, sometimes accompanied by lava flows, have occurred since 1933. During a major eruption in 1550 CE, a lava flow filled in the strait between Halmahera and the Gunung Mamuya cone, 10 km NE. Malupang Wariang, 1 km SW of the summit crater complex, contains a 700 x 570 m crater that has also had reported eruptions.

Sources: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC), Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)