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Marapi

Photo of this volcano
  • Country
  • Volcanic Region
  • Landform | Volc Type
  • Last Known Eruption
  • 0.38°S
  • 100.474°E

  • 2,885 m
    9,465 ft

  • 261140
  • Latitude
  • Longitude

  • Summit
    Elevation

  • Volcano
    Number

Most Recent Weekly Report: 13 November-19 November 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported that unrest at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 13-19 November. No emissions were observed during 13-15 November possibly due to weather clouds obscuring views. White emissions were observed rising 100-300 m above the crater rim and drifting in multiple directions during 16-17 November. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


Most Recent Bulletin Report: May 2023 (BGVN 48:05) Citation IconCite this Report

New explosive eruption with ash emissions during January-March 2023

Marapi in Sumatra, Indonesia, is a massive stratovolcano that rises 2 km above the Bukittinggi Plain in the Padang Highlands. A broad summit contains multiple partially overlapping summit craters constructed within the small 1.4-km-wide Bancah caldera and trending ENE-WSW, with volcanism migrating to the west. Since the end of the 18th century, more than 50 eruptions, typically characterized by small-to-moderate explosive activity, have been recorded. The previous eruption consisted of two explosions during April-May 2018, which caused ashfall to the SE (BGVN 43:06). This report covers a new eruption during January-March 2023, which included explosive events and ash emissions, as reported by Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM) and MAGMA Indonesia.

According to a press release issued by PVMBG and MAGMA Indonesia on 26 December, primary volcanic activity at Marapi consisted of white gas-and-steam puffs that rose 500-100 m above the summit during April-December 2022. On 25 December 2022 there was an increase in the number of deep volcanic earthquakes and summit inflation. White gas-and-steam emissions rose 80-158 m above the summit on 5 January. An explosive eruption began at 0611 on 7 January 2023, which generated white gas-and-steam emissions and gray ash emissions mixed with ejecta that rose 300 m above the summit and drifted SE (figure 10). According to ground observations, white-to-gray ash clouds during 0944-1034 rose 200-250 m above the summit and drifted SE and around 1451 emissions rose 200 m above the summit. Seismic signals indicated that eruptive events also occurred at 1135, 1144, 1230, 1715, and 1821, but no ash emissions were visually observed. On 8 January white-and-gray emissions rose 150-250 m above the summit that drifted E and SE. Seismic signals indicated eruptive events at 0447, 1038, and 1145, but again no ash emissions were visually observed on 8 January. White-to-gray ash plumes continued to be observed on clear weather days during 9-15, 18-21, 25, and 29-30 January, rising 100-1,000 m above the summit and drifted generally NE, SE, N, and E, based on ground observations (figure 11).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 10. Webcam image of the start of the explosive eruption at Marapi at 0651 on 7 January 2023. White gas-and-steam emissions are visible to the left and gray ash emissions are visible on the right, drifting SE. Distinct ejecta was also visible mixed within the ash cloud. Courtesy of PVMBG and MAGMA Indonesia.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 11. Webcam image showing thick, gray ash emissions rising 500 m above the summit of Marapi and drifting N and NE at 0953 on 11 January 2023. Courtesy of PVMBG and MAGMA Indonesia.

White-and-gray and brown emissions persisted in February, rising 50-500 m above the summit and drifting E, S, SW, N, NE, and W, though weather sometimes prevented clear views of the summit. An eruption at 1827 on 10 February produced a black ash plume that rose 400 m above the summit and drifted NE and E (figure 12). Similar activity was reported on clear weather days, with white gas-and-steam emissions rising 50 m above the summit on 9, 11-12, 20, and 27 March and drifted E, SE, SW, NE, E, and N. On 17 March white-and-gray emissions rose 400 m above the summit and drifted N and E.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 12. Webcam image showing an eruptive event at 1829 on 10 February 2023 with an ash plume rising 400 m above the summit and drifting NE and E. Courtesy of PVMBG and MAGMA Indonesia.

Information Contacts: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); MAGMA Indonesia, Kementerian Energi dan Sumber Daya Mineral (URL: https://magma.esdm.go.id/v1).

Weekly Reports - Index


2024: January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November
2023: January | February | March | November | December
2022: August | September | December
2018: April | May
2017: May
2016: January
2015: May | November
2014: February
2012: March | May | September
2011: July | August | October
2005: July
2004: August
2001: April | May


13 November-19 November 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported that unrest at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 13-19 November. No emissions were observed during 13-15 November possibly due to weather clouds obscuring views. White emissions were observed rising 100-300 m above the crater rim and drifting in multiple directions during 16-17 November. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


6 November-12 November 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 6-12 November. Almost daily white-to-gray emissions rose as high as 800 m above the summit and drifted several directions. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km from the summit crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


30 October-5 November 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 30 October-6 November. During 30 October-5 November daily white emissions rose as high as 300 m above the summit and drifted several directions. At 0544 on 6 November ash emissions rose 1.5 km above the summit. At 1500 that day the Alert Level was raised from 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) due to increased seismicity and emissions and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km from the summit crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


23 October-29 October 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 23-29 October. At 0139 on 23 October a dense gray ash plume rose 800 m above the summit and drifted NW. On 26 October a dense gray ash plume rose 800 m above the summit and drifted NE at 1305, and at 1710 that same day a loud booming sound was accompanied by a dense gray ash plume that rose 1 km and drifted NW. Dense gray ash plumes from eruptive events at 0700, 0736, 0956, and 1601 on 27 October rose 800-2,000 m above the summit and drifted NW and NE. According to a 28 October news article an Early Warning System (EWS) to detect lahars on the flanks became operational after final testing by BNPB. The EWS was comprised of sensor devices to detect river water levels in drainages, surveillance cameras (CCTV), and siren towers to notify the public to evacuate, spread across 23 installation locations. The locations were selected based on the results of a field mapping survey and evaluation of lahars that occurred in mid-May. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Antara News; Antara News


16 October-22 October 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 16-22 October. Daily white emissions rose 50-400 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions. On 22 October at 0139 an ash emission rose 800 m above the summit and drifted NW. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


11 September-17 September 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 11-17 September. On 11 and 13 September white emissions rose 100-150 m above the summit and drifted E. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 100-300 m above the summit and drifted E and NE. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


28 August-3 September 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 28 August-3 September. On 30 August and 3 September white emissions rose 200-300 m above the summit and drifted N, E, and SE. At 0823 on 31 August a dense white-and-gray ash plume rose 400 m above the summit and drifted N. Emissions were not reported on the other days of the week. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


21 August-27 August 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 21-17 August. Gray ash plumes rose 100-350 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 21-22 and 25 August. Emissions were not observed on the other days. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


17 July-23 July 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 17-23 July. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 100-250 m above the summit and drifted NE, E, and S during 17-18 and 20 July. Gray ash plumes rose 150 m above the summit and drifted NE and E on 19 July. Emissions were not observed on the other days. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


10 July-16 July 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 10-16 July. On 10 July at 1656 a VONA was issued. Gray emissions rose 1,000 m above the summit and drifted NE. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 100-300 m above the summit and drifted multiple directions during 11, 13, and 16 July. Emissions were not observed on the other days. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


3 July-9 July 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 3-9 July. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 200-800 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 4-5 and 8 July. Emissions were not observed on the other days. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


26 June-2 July 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 26 June-2 July. White gas-and-steam plumes rose as high as 300 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions on 26 and 29 June and 2 July. Gray ash plumes rose 500 m above the summit and drifted SW on 28 June based on a Darwin VAAC report. Emissions were not observed on the other days. PVMBG noted that activity had generally declined during the previous two weeks. Seismic signals indicating eruptive events were at low levels, deformation data indicated deflation, and sulfur dioxide emissions were at low levels. At 1500 on 1 July the Alert Level was lowered to 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the active crater.

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


19 June-25 June 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 19-25 June. White gas-and-steam plumes rose as high as 300 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during most days. Gray ash plumes that were sometimes dense rose 300-500 m above the summit and drifted N, NE, and SE during 22-23 June. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


12 June-18 June 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 12-18 June. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 200-300 m above the summit and drifted S, SW, W, and NE during 12-13 and 16 June. A dense gray ash plume rose 500 m above the summit and drifted NW on 17 June. Emissions were not visible on the other days; eruptive events were recorded during 12-13 and 15-17 June, though no emissions were observed. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


5 June-11 June 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 5-11 June. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 200-300 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 5-6 and 8 June. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 300-750 m above the summit and drifted multiple directions during 7 and 9-10 June. One of the ash plumes, recorded at 0810 on 9 June, was gray-to-brown and rose 300 m and drifted SE. Emissions were not visible on 11 June. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


29 May-4 June 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 29 May-4 June. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 150-400 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 29 May-1 June and on 3 June. An eruptive event at 1304 on 30 May produced a dense gray ash plume that rose 2 km and drifted NW. BNPB noted that a booming noise from the event was heard in areas as far as the Marapi Volcano Observation post in Bukittinggi (12 km NW). White-and-gray ash plumes rose 200-1,000 m above the summit and drifted S, SW, W, and NW on 2 June. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB)


22 May-28 May 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 22-28 May. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 200-300 m above the summit and drifted SW, S, and SE on most days; no emissions were visible on 22 May. At 0350 on 26 May a dense gray ash plume rose around 1 km above the summit and drifted S. A webcam image showed incandescence at the crater. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


15 May-21 May 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 15-21 May. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 200-300 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions on most days; no emissions were visible on 16 and 20 May. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 400-550 above the summit and drifted NW on 18 May.

The 11 May lahars that caused several fatalities, evacuations, and widespread damage in the Agam Regency continued to impact the area. As of 1700 on 16 May BNBP reported that the death toll had reached 67 people, while 20 remained missing and 40-44 had been injured; overall 989 families were impacted by the lahars. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB)


8 May-14 May 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that unrest at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 8-14 May. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 200-300 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions on most days; no emissions were visible on 10 May. An eruptive event was recorded on 10 May, though plumes were not visible.

Lahars generated by intense rainfall occurred around 2100 on 11 May and caused several fatalities, evacuations, and widespread damage in the Agam Regency. The lahars originated in the Malana or Lona drainage on Marapi’s flank and significantly impacted several areas including in the Agam, Tanah Datar, Padang Panjang, and Padang Pariaman districts. Aid efforts were delayed by damage to bridges and several sections of roads between villages. Close to 200 homes were damaged or missing, around 72 hectares of fields were affected, and mosques were damaged. Search-and-rescue efforts were suspended overnight during 11-12 May due to lack of light and continuing flooding in upstream areas. As of 1300 on 13 May there were 15 people that remained missing. The number of evacuees totaled 1,159 in the Agam Regency and 2,039 in the Tanah Datar Regency. Accordion to a news report the death toll reached 43 people on 15 May. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB); Antara News; Antara News


1 May-7 May 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 1-7 May. White steam-and-gas plumes rose 200-300 m above the summit and drifted multiple directions almost every day. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 250-300 m above the summit and drifted E and SE on 6 May. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


24 April-30 April 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 24-30 April. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 300-1,000 m above the summit and drifted N, NW, and W on 24, 27, and 29 April. White steam-and-gas plumes rose 300 m above the summit and drifted NW on 26 April; emissions were not visible on the other days, though an eruptive event was recorded on 25 April. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


17 April-23 April 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 17-22 April. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 250-300 m above the summit and drifted SE and W on 21 April. White steam-and-gas plumes rose 250-300 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions on 17, 19, and 22 April. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


10 April-16 April 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 10-16 April. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 200-600 m above the summit and drifted N and NW on 14 April. White steam-and-gas plumes rose 250-500 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions on the other days. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


3 April-9 April 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 3-9 April. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 250-1,500 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 3-5 and 8-9 April. White steam-and-gas plumes rose 250-300 m above the summit and drifted E and SE during 6-7 April.

Lahars generated by intense rainfall were detected by the seismic network during 1400-1530 on 5 April. The lahars originated in multiple drainages on Marapi and damaged homes and infrastructure in parts of the Agam and Tanah Datar regencies including Bukik Batabuah and Aia Angek, and villages in the districts of Sungai Pua, Candung, and Batipuah. According to news articles at least two pulses of lahars damaged the Bukittinggi-Padang highway, causing it to be impassible for several hours. The lahars infiltrated about 65 hectares of rice fields, damaged 72 houses, and affected 38 businesses. In some areas, cars were stranded and some motorists were trapped, smaller roads were blocked, gas stations were impacted, and a few farm animals were swept away. About 270 residents were affected, and at least 68 were evacuated. Some residents were taken to the hospital, but no fatalities were reported. Based on field observations during 5-6 April authorities identified several rivers that had shallowed due to deposited material from the lahars and needed to be dredged so that they could flow normally and not cause further flooding. Efforts to remove the lahar and debris deposits such as tree trunks and branches was underway. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Antara News; Antara News; Antara News; Antara News; Antara News; Antara News


27 March-2 April 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB) reported that a more notable eruption occurred at Marapi (on Sumatra) on 27 March. An eruptive event at 0013 generated roaring and an ash plume that rose 1.5 km above the summit and drifted W, causing minor ashfall in several areas downwind including in the Tanah Datar (SE) and Agam (NW) regencies and in Bukittinggi City (13 km NW). Several flights were canceled, and the Minangkabau International Airport (50 km SSW) closed during 1021-1400, according to a news article. Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported that eruptive events at 0849, 1122, and 2054 produced dense gray ash plumes that rose 1.5 km above the summit and drifted W. An event at 2157 generated a dense gray ash plume that rose 1 km above the summit and drifted W. The ash plumes were the highest recorded since the eruption began on 3 December 2023, when plumes rose as high as 3 km. White-and-gray ash plumes rose to 1 km and drifted SW and W on 28 March; they rose as high as 500 m and drifted NW, W, and SW on 29 March, 31 March, and 1 April. Plumes were not visible on 30 March or 2 April. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Sources: Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB); Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Tempo


20 March-26 March 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 20-26 March. White and gray ash plumes rose 200-500 m above the summit and drifted multiple directions on 20 and 24 March. White steam and gas plumes rose 200-250 m above the summit and drifted N, NE, and NW on 21 and 25 March. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


13 March-19 March 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 13-19 March. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 150-1,000 m above the summit and drifted E, SE, and SW during 13-14 and 16 March. White steam-and-gas plumes rose 100-200 m above the summit and drifted NE, E, and SE on 15, 17, and 19 March. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


6 March-12 March 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 6-12 March. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 250-700 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 6-8 March. White steam-and-gas plumes rose 150-250 m above the summit and drifted NE, E, and SE during 9-12 March. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


28 February-5 March 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 28 February-5 March. White-and-gray gas-and-ash plumes rose 200-500 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions on most days; emissions were not observed on 28 February and 5 March. Crater incandescence was visible to residents from multiple directions during the evening of 29 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB)


21 February-27 February 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 21-27 February. White-and-gray gas-and-ash plumes rose 200-600 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions on most days; white plumes rose 250 m and drifted SW, W, and NW on 27 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


14 February-20 February 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 14-20 February. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 200-900 m above them summit and drifted in multiple directions during 14-15, 18, and 20 February. White steam-and-gas plumes rose 400 m and drifted SW, W, and NE on 17 February; no emissions were observed on 16 and 19 February. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


7 February-13 February 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 7-13 February. White and gray gas-and-ash plumes rose as high as 700 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions. On 10 February at 1651, PVMBG reported that an ash plume rose 700 m above the summit and drifted SW. According to the Darwin VAAC ash plumes rose over 700 m above the crater on most days and drifted N, E, SSW, and SW, though weather conditions sometimes prevented identification in satellite data. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

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


31 January-6 February 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 31 January-6 February. White gas-and-steam plumes rose as high as 400 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 31 January-4 February. According to the Darwin VAAC an ash plume rose 400 m above the crater at 0430 on 3 February, though weather conditions prevented identification in satellite data. PVMBG noted that white-and-gray ash plumes rose 100-500 m above the summit and drifted S, SW, and W on 5 February. According to a news source, residents reported vibrations and noises from the volcano from an eruptive event at 1516 on 5 February. The Darwin VAAC reported that at 1528 and 1702 on 6 February ash plumes were identified in satellite images rising as high as 800 m above the summit and drifting S. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

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


24 January-30 January 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 24-30 January. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 300 m above the summit and drifted N and NE on 25 January. White gas-and-steam plumes rose 150-250 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 28-30 January. Emissions were not observed on the other days. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


17 January-23 January 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 10-16 January. Plumes were not observed during 17-18 January. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 300-600 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 19-22 January. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from the active crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


10 January-16 January 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing at Verbeek Crater during 10-16 January. Dense, white-and-gray ash plumes rose as high as 1.5 km above the summit and drifted NW, W, and SW during 11-15 January. Weather conditions sometimes prevented views of the volcano. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 4.5 km away from Verbeek Crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


3 January-9 January 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing at Verbeek Crater during 3-9 January. White plumes rose 300-350 m above the summit and drifted S and SW on 4 January. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 150-600 m above the summit and drifted S, SW, N, and NE during 5-8 January.

PVMBG reevaluated instrumental data and visual observations at Marapi and concluded that activity was continuing at high levels; at 1800 on 9 January they raised the Alert Level to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and warned the public to stay 4.5 km away from Verbeek Crater. They noted that ongoing high seismicity and increasing numbers of low-frequency and deep volcanic earthquakes indicated that magma continued to be supplied at depth. Incandescence at the crater and the ejection of incandescent material after the 3 December eruption indicated that the eruption style had change from phreatic to magmatic; sulfur dioxide emissions measured from satellite were at high levels.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


27 December-2 January 2024 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 27 December 2023-2 January 2024, though fog and rain occasionally prevented visual observations of the summit. At 1205 on 27 December a dense gray ash plume rose 1.5 km above the summit and drifted SW and W. Ash plumes rose 500-700 m above the summit and drifted S, SW, and W during 31 December 2023-1 January 2024. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the summit crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


20 December-26 December 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 20-26 December, though fog and rain occasionally prevented visual observations of the summit. White-and-gray ash plumes that were often dense rose as high as 1 km above the summit and drifted in multiple directions during 22-26 December. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the summit crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


13 December-19 December 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi (on Sumatra) was ongoing during 13-19 December, though foggy and raining weather conditions often prevented visual observations of the summit. White-and-gray ash plumes that were sometimes dense rose 400-600 m and drifted S, SW, NW, and NE during 13-15 and 18 December. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the summit crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


6 December-12 December 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that eruptive activity at Marapi was ongoing during 6-12 December, though foggy and raining weather conditions often prevented visual observations of the summit. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 400-500 m and drifted NE, E, and W on 6 December. Eruptive events were recorded by the seismic network at 1009 on 6 December and at 0141 on 7 December though no ash emissions were observed. On 11 December white-and-gray ash plumes rose 200-400 m above the summit and drifted E and S. At 0805 that same day a dense gray ash plume rose 400 m above the summit and drifted N. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the summit crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


29 November-5 December 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

An explosive eruption from Marapi (on Sumatra) began at 1454 local time (Western Indonesian Time, or WIB; 0754 UTC) on 3 December, as reported by PVMBG and the National Disaster Management Agency’s (BNPB) Operations and Control Center (Pusdalops). At that time 75 people were known to be hiking on the volcano, having registered at either the Batu Palano entrance in Agam Regency or the Koto Baru entrance in Tanah Dara Regency. News reports late on the evening of 5 December indicated that rescue teams had accounted for all of the climbers, with officials reporting 23 deaths and 52 survivors, most of whom had suffered burns along with other injuries.

PVMBG reports and Volcano Observatory Notices for Aviation (VONAs) stated that the initial eruption lasted 4 minutes and 41 seconds, producing a dense dark gray ash plume that rose 3 km above the vent (5.9 km a.s.l.) and drifted E. The eruption was also accompanied by a roaring sound and a pyroclastic flow near the N flank that descended as far as 3 km. The Aviation Color Code was raised from Orange to Red. Tephra fall was reported within 6 km from the vent, and ash as far as 13 km away. Thick ashfall was reported as of 1742 WIB in the Nagari Lasi area within the Canduang District of Agam Regency, and less intense ashfall was reported in the Sungai Pua District. By 0728 WIB on 4 December, tephra consisting of mainly ash and some larger clasts described as “gravel or stones” had been reported in the Canduang, Sungai Pua, Ampek-Ampek, Malalak, Banuhampu, Tilatang Kamang, Baso, Tanjung Raya, Lubuk Basung, IV Koto, Matur, Tanjung Mutiara, Palembayan, and Kamang Magek subdistricts.

Prior to the eruption, during 29 November-2 December, summit views were blocked by weather clouds and recorded seismicity consisted of typical volcano-tectonic (VT) earthquakes; the eruption was not preceded by increased seismicity. Overall on 3 December the seismic network recorded 36 eruption events starting with the 1454 WIB activity. Another 10 eruption events were recorded on 4 December, including an explosion at 0822 that produced a dense gray-to-black ash plume that rose as high as 800 m above the vent and drifted SW. The Aviation Color Code was lowered from Red to Orange. The seismic network recorded six additional eruption signals during 5 December, though summit views were often blocked by weather clouds.

The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay at least 3 km away from the crater in all directions. There were no evacuations, but people within the Canduang, Sungai Pua, Ampek Angkek, and Malalak districts were advised to avoid outdoor activities and wear masks. With support from the West Sumatra Provincial Government, the Agam Regency government activated health centers to help those affected by ashfall.

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB); Antara News; Channelnewsasia.com


15 March-21 March 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that on 17 March a white-and-gray plume from Marapi (on Sumatra) rose as high as 400 m above the summit and drifted N and E. Emissions were not observed on other days during 15-19 March, though some of the days were cloudy. White gas plumes rose 50 m above the summit on 20 March. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


1 March-7 March 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Marapi (on Sumatra) continued during 1-7 March. On 2 March white steam-and-gas plumes rose 100 m from the summit and drifted NW, SW, and E, and on 4 March white-and-gray plumes rose 200 m and drifted N and NE; weather clouds prevented visual observations on the other days. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


15 February-21 February 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Marapi (on Sumatra) continued during 15-21 February. White steam-and-gas plumes were visible almost daily rising as high as 100 m from the summit; weather clouds prevented visual observations on 16 February. White-and-gray ash plume rose around 500 m from the summit and drifted E, SE, and SW on 20 February. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


8 February-14 February 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Marapi continued during 8-14 February. White, gray, and black plumes rose as high as 400 m and drifted SW and S on 10 February. At 1827 a dense black ash plume rose 400 m and drifted NE and E. White-and-gray plumes that were sometimes dense rose as high as 200 m and drifted E and SE on 12 February. Diffuse white-and-gray plumes rose 100 m and drifted N and S on 13 February. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


1 February-7 February 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Marapi continued during 1-7 February. White-and-gray emissions rose as high as 200 m and drifted in various directions during 1-2 and 4 February; white steam plumes were visible on 3 February. White-and-brown plumes rose as high as 400 m on 6 February. Weather clouds sometimes prevented views of the volcano. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


18 January-24 January 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that the eruption at Marapi continued during 17-24 January. White-and-gray emissions rose as high as 500 m and drifted in various directions during 17-21 January; white steam plumes were visible on the other days. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


11 January-17 January 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that the explosive eruption at Marapi continued during 10-17 January with daily dense ash plumes rising above the crater rim and drifting in various directions. White-and-gray ash plumes at 0900 and 0912 on 10 January rose 200-300 m and drifted NE and SE. Gray ash plumes rose 400-800 m at 0825, 0941, and 1133 on 11 January and drifted N, NE, E, and SE. Multiple gray ash plumes visible on 12 January (0640, 0936, 1042, 1058, 1217, 1824) rose as high as 1 km and drifted NE, E, and SE. White-and-gray ash plumes rose 200-600 m and drifted NE, SE, and SW during 13-15 January; rainy weather conditions prevented visual observations on 16 January. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was warned to stay 3 km away from the crater.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


4 January-10 January 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that an explosive eruption at Marapi began at 0611 on 7 January, generating a dense white-and-gray ash plume that rose 300 m above the summit and drifted SE. Images posted with the report showed jets of dark material rising from the crater. Emissions continued to periodically rise form the crater; at 0944, 1034, and 1451 dense white or white-to-gray ash plumes rose 200-250 m above the summit and drifted SE. Seismic signals indicated that eruptive events also occurred at 1135, 1144, 1230, 1715, and 1821, but no ash emissions were visually observed. At 1250 on 8 January a dense white ash plume rose 150 m and drifted SE and at 1300 a dense white-to-gray ash plume rose 200 m and drifted E. Seismic signals indicated eruptive events at 0447, 1038, and 1145, but again no ash emissions were visually observed. At 0634 on 9 January a dense white ash plume rose around 250 m and drifted E and SE. The eruption was preceded by an increase in the number of deep volcanic earthquakes beginning on 25 December 2022 and summit inflation. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


28 December-3 January 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

In a special report posted on 27 December PVMBG reported that seismicity at Marapi increased during 25-26 December, characterized by an increase in the number of deep volcanic earthquakes, tornillo-type events, and shallow volcanic earthquakes associated with hydrothermal activity. Surficial activity showed no changes; diffuse white plumes rose as high as 100 m above the summit during the previous eight months. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


28 September-4 October 2022 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that seismicity at Marapi increased on 29 September, with 146 deep volcanic earthquakes recorded by the seismic network. Surficial activity showed no changes. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 1-4).

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


31 August-6 September 2022 Citation IconCite this Report

In a special notice posted on 2 September PVMBG reported that tiltmeter deformation data for Marapi showed a trend of inflation at the summit and deflation along the flanks. Seismicity continued to fluctuate with the dominating signal indicating hydrothermal activity. A phreatic eruption was the most likely kind of volcanic activity that could occur at the volcano, based on the recent data, and it could occur without warning; PVMBG reminded the public to stay at least 3 km away from the summit. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


2 May-8 May 2018 Citation IconCite this Report

On 2 May at 0703 an eruption at Marapi produced a dense, gray ash plume that rose 4 km above the crater rim and drifted SE. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and visitors were advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB)


25 April-1 May 2018 Citation IconCite this Report

On 27 April a phreatic eruption at Marapi produced an ash plumes that rose 300 m above the crater rim. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and visitors were advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Sources: Badan Nacional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB); Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


31 May-6 June 2017 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported four explosions at Marapi on 4 June, each lasting less than one minute. The explosions occurred at 1001, 1011, 1256, and 1550, and produced dense ash-and-steam plumes that rose 300 m, at least 700 m, 200 m, and 250 m above the crater, respectively. The plumes drifted E. Ejected bombs were deposited around the crater. Seismicity increased after the explosions. Minor ashfall was reported in the Pariangan District (8 km SSE), Tanah Datar Regency. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and visitors were advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


20 January-26 January 2016 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that on most days during periods of clear weather from 1 November 2015 to 19 January 2016 white plumes rose above Marapi as high as 250 m above the crater. A phreatic explosion at 2233 on 14 November generated an ash plume, and ashfall was noted in Panyalaian and Aia Angek on the SW flank. Seismicity fluctuated during 1-18 January; earthquakes indicating emissions, tornillo-type events, and shallow volcanic signals slightly increased. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and visitors were advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


18 November-24 November 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 1 August-16 November diffuse white plumes rose as high as 150 m above Marapi, inclement weather prevented observations during October and periodically during the other months. Seismicity fluctuated; the number of tremor, tornillo-type, and signals indicating emissions increased. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and visitors were advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


20 May-26 May 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during February-25 May diffuse white plumes rose as high as 300 m above Marapi, although inclement weather often prevented observations. Seismicity fluctuated. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and visitors were advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


26 February-4 March 2014 Citation IconCite this Report

According to news articles, an explosion at Marapi on 26 February produced an ash plume that caused ashfall in areas as far as 10 km S. According to PVMBG the Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Sources: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM); The Free Press Journal


19 February-25 February 2014 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article from 5 February four explosions from Marapi occurred in early February. One of the explosions was followed by ashfall in the Tarab River area and Batu Sangkar (17 km SE).

Source: Metro TV News


26 September-2 October 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to news articles, an eruption from Marapi on 26 September produced an ash plume that rose 1.5 km above the crater.

Source: Big Pond News


16 May-22 May 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article, an approximately 10-minute-long eruption from Marapi produced an ash plume that rose 600 m on 18 May. The article noted that the Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Source: MI News 26


7 March-13 March 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article from 5 March, several eruptions from Marapi produced ash plumes during the previous week. An ash plume rose 1 km above the crater on 4 March and drifted 10 km S. A representative from CVGHM noted that the Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Source: BNO News


12 October-18 October 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 12 October an eruption from Marapi produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted E.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


5 October-11 October 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on a pilot report, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 11 October an ash plume from Marapi rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l. Ash was not identified in satellite imagery.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


10 August-16 August 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article, two eruptions from Marapi occurred on 9 August. The article also noted that the Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Source: Metro TV News


27 July-2 August 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported increased seismicity from Marapi during 21 June-3 August. Observers noted that during June and July white plumes rose 15-75 m above the summit craters. On 1 August white plumes rose 15 m above the main crater; fog prevented observations the next day. On 3 August dense gray plumes rose 300-1,000 m above the crater on eight occasions. That same day CVGHM raised the Alert Level to 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Visitors and residents were prohibited from going within a 3-km radius of the summit.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


20 July-26 July 2005 Citation IconCite this Report

DVGHM raised the Alert Level at Marapi from 1 to 2 on 18 July after the number of earthquakes increased dramatically during 8-14 July. During this period, the volcano's seismic network recorded 112 deep volcanic earthquakes. Normally, an average of 7 deep volcanic earthquakes occur in 1 week. No significant activity changes were seen at the volcano; gas emissions rose ~50 m above the summit (9,650 ft a.s.l.) and fumarole temperatures were normal.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


4 August-10 August 2004 Citation IconCite this Report

Increased volcanic activity at Marapi during early August led DVGHM to raise the Alert Level to 2 from 1 (on a scale of 1-4) on 5 August. Ash explosions rose 500-1,000 m above the summit and no seismic data were available. Visitors and villagers in the Tanah Datar and Padang Panjang districts were advised not to climb the volcano.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


2 May-8 May 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

VSI reported that volcanic activity continued at Marapi at a decreased level in comparison to the previous week. Thirty explosions were observed and an ash plume rose 3 km above the summit. Tephra fell up to 4 km in radius from the crater. Marapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


25 April-1 May 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

VSI reported that the Marapi eruption at 0814 on 16 April produced a cauliflower-shaped black ash plume that rose 2 km above the summit. Ash, lapilli, and volcanic bombs were ejected during the eruption and fell within the crater. In addition, ash fell in many villages on the S and SW flanks of the volcano. Within 1-4 km from the summit the thickness of the ash deposits was between 2 and 3 cm. Until 18 April approximately 150 smaller explosions continuously occurred. The 16 April eruption was preceded by shallow volcanic earthquakes that began on 7 April and by continuous volcanic tremor recorded on 9 April. Small eruptions occurred at 1283 and 1600 on 13 April. VSI had increased the Alert Level at Marapi from 1 to 2 following the minor activity that began on 13 April.

Source: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


18 April-24 April 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on information from VSI, the Darwin VAAC reported that after increased volcanic activity occurred over the preceding two weeks VSI raised the Alert Level at Marapi from 1 to 2. The increased activity included an eruption on 16 April that sent an ash cloud up to 2 km above the summit. In addition, an eruption on about 23 April produced an ash cloud that rose up to ~6 km a.s.l. and drifted to the E.

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


Bulletin Reports - Index

Reports are organized chronologically and indexed below by Month/Year (Publication Volume:Number), and include a one-line summary. Click on the index link or scroll down to read the reports.

10/1978 (SEAN 03:10) Ash emission from summit area

04/1979 (SEAN 04:04) 60 killed by air fall of coarse tephra

05/1979 (SEAN 04:05) Landslide, not eruption, caused fatalities on 30 April

09/1979 (SEAN 04:09) Small ash eruption

03/1980 (SEAN 05:03) Two small plumes

07/1982 (SEAN 07:03) 30-minute ash ejection

11/1984 (SEAN 09:11) Small plumes

06/1987 (SEAN 12:06) Small explosions; ashfall on two cities

12/1987 (SEAN 12:12) Many small explosions; light ashfall over W part of island

01/1988 (SEAN 13:01) Eruption with ashfall

02/1988 (SEAN 13:02) More explosions

03/1988 (SEAN 13:03) Explosion and light ashfall

06/1988 (SEAN 13:06) Two ash explosions

07/1988 (SEAN 13:07) Intermittent ash ejections continue

06/1992 (BGVN 17:06) Explosion kills one person and injures five others

07/1994 (BGVN 19:07) Eruption sends ash column to ~6 km above sea level; summary of 1993 activity

05/1999 (BGVN 24:05) Declining activity and weak ash emissions

08/1999 (BGVN 24:08) Strong explosions within moderate background activity during June-September

11/2000 (BGVN 25:11) Large explosions in March 2000 eject ash

01/2002 (BGVN 27:01) Explosions during 2001; April ash plume reaches 2.0 km above the summit

01/2005 (BGVN 30:01) Small eruptions and seismicity during August to October 2004

07/2011 (BGVN 36:07) Increased seismicity in 2004; small ash-bearing eruptions in 2011

05/2015 (BGVN 40:05) Ash plumes in August and October 2011, March 2012, and February 2014

02/2017 (BGVN 42:02) Phreatic explosion on 14 November 2015 causes ashfall on the SW flank

10/2017 (BGVN 42:10) Four short ash explosions on 4 June 2017

06/2018 (BGVN 43:06) Two explosions during April-May 2018 cause ashfall to the southeast

05/2023 (BGVN 48:05) New explosive eruption with ash emissions during January-March 2023




Information is preliminary and subject to change. All times are local (unless otherwise noted)


October 1978 (SEAN 03:10) Citation IconCite this Report

Ash emission from summit area

At 1830 on 8 September Marapi ejected a thick blackish-gray cauliflower-shaped cloud to 1500 m above the crater, accompanied by glow and a roaring noise. Andesitic ash and lapilli fell on a 30 km2 area. This explosion was preceded by a number of smaller ones that produced 300-500-m-high clouds. Fumarolic emissions, rising as much as 700 m and containing some ash, were continuing as of 18 September. No seismicity was felt in villages around the volcano. The activity originated from the lateral extension of a small, pre-existing, summit area crater (figure 1), ~300 m E of the central crater. When visited on 13 September the active crater was an elongate feature 95 m long, 50 m wide, and ~50 m deep.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 1. Sketch map showing Marapi's summit area and the 1978 eruption crater. Courtesy of VSI.

Information Contacts: F. Suparban Mitrohartono, VSI.


April 1979 (SEAN 04:04) Citation IconCite this Report

60 killed by air fall of coarse tephra

According to press reports, 60 persons were killed by an eruption of Marapi during the morning of 30 April [but see below], and rescue workers searched for 19 others believed trapped by "landslides." The volcano was said to have ejected "stones" and "mud" or "lava," causing damage in at least five villages. The deaths were apparently caused by large airfall tephra.

Information Contacts: AFP; Kompas, Jakarta.


May 1979 (SEAN 04:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Landslide, not eruption, caused fatalities on 30 April

Press reports describing a tephra eruption of Marapi on 30 April were incorrect. About 300 mm of rainfall remobilized an old lahar and other volcanic material on Marapi's N and E flanks, producing several landslides. The largest began at 2,400 m altitude on 30 April, and traveled as much as 20 km downslope to ~70 m altitude, leaving a deposit 20-150 m wide and 1-3 m thick. Eighty people were killed, five villages were damaged, and several acres of farmland were destroyed.

A VSI team inspected Marapi's crater on 8 May. Fumaroles emitted thin white vapor columns that had a slight sulfur odor and a temperature of 90-104°C.

Information Contacts: F. Suparban Mitrohartono and A. Sudradjat, VSI.


September 1979 (SEAN 04:09) Citation IconCite this Report

Small ash eruption

A small eruption of Marapi occurred on 11 September. The eruption column rose 700 m and deposited ash to ~3 km W of the volcano. An inspection revealed that three summit-area craters (Verbeek, C, and Tuo) had been active. No activity has been reported since then.

Information Contacts: A. Sudradjat, VSI.


March 1980 (SEAN 05:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Two small plumes

Plumes rose 700 m from Marapi at 0627 and 0755 on 29 March, then were blown S by the wind. No further activity had occurred as of 2 April.

Information Contacts: A. Sudradjat and L. Pardyanto, VSI.


July 1982 (SEAN 07:03) Citation IconCite this Report

30-minute ash ejection

Indonesian newspapers reported that Marapi ejected a black eruption column for about 30 minutes beginning at 0700 on 10 March. The governor of West Sumatra noted that there have been two previous small eruptions in 1982. Camps have been prepared to receive evacuees if a large eruption occurs.

Information Contacts: M. Krafft, Cernay, France.


November 1984 (SEAN 09:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Small plumes

On 15 November at 0500 Marapi emitted a white to brownish plume. A small, possibly phreatic, eruption occurred at 0830, ejecting a blackish plume to about 400 m height. No additional activity was reported. No residents were evacuated.

Information Contacts: A. Sudradjat, VSI.


June 1987 (SEAN 12:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Small explosions; ashfall on two cities

Small explosions occurred on 25 and 30 May, and 1, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 11 June, with column heights reaching 1 km above the summit. A light dusting of ash fell on Bukittinggi, [15] km NW [of the summit], and Padang, [65] km [SSW]. The previous activity at Marapi occurred 15 January.

Information Contacts: VSI.


December 1987 (SEAN 12:12) Citation IconCite this Report

Many small explosions; light ashfall over W part of island

At least 17 small explosions were recorded during December. One of the largest, on 7 December at 0648, sent a plume from the summit area's Verbeek Crater to ~900 m height. Additional larger explosions occurred on 24 December at 0625 (plume to 1,000 m) and on 27 December at 0007 (plume not visible). Other plumes from December explosions reached 700-1,000 m above the crater. Light ashfall was reported from a wide area of W Sumatra.

Information Contacts: VSI.


January 1988 (SEAN 13:01) Citation IconCite this Report

Eruption with ashfall

Ash from an eruption around midnight on 28-29 January was carried S toward Padang city. Three millimeters of ash fell in Padangpanjang, [12] km [SW] of [the summit].

Information Contacts: VSI.


February 1988 (SEAN 13:02) Citation IconCite this Report

More explosions

Marapi erupted again on 19, 20, and 24 February, and 1 March. Fresh, unaltered rock has been found in the tephra from the 1988 explosions.

Information Contacts: VSI.


March 1988 (SEAN 13:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Explosion and light ashfall

On 1 March at 1311, a single explosion occurred from the summit crater, depositing as much as 1 mm of ash to 9 km of the summit.

Information Contacts: VSI.


June 1988 (SEAN 13:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Two ash explosions

Single explosions ejected ash-laden eruption columns to 1 km above the vent on 7 and 8 July [see also 13:7].

Information Contacts: VSI.


July 1988 (SEAN 13:07) Citation IconCite this Report

Intermittent ash ejections continue

Small explosions occurred 1 July at 1420 and 8 July at 1900, depositing 0.5 mm of ash in Bukittinggi.

Information Contacts: VSI.


June 1992 (BGVN 17:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Explosion kills one person and injures five others

An explosion on 5 July killed one person and injured five others. Marapi has been erupting since 1987, with explosions typically occurring about once every 1-7 days. Material ejected by the smaller explosions rises 100-800 m, whereas ejecta from larger explosions reach 800-2,000 m above the summit. The recent explosions, which produce ash and lapilli, have originated from Verbeek Crater in the summit complex. Ashfalls have been frequent NW of the volcano in Bukittinggi (roughly 15 km NW of the summit), Sungai Puar (30 km NW), and the Agam district (>30 km NW), depending on wind direction. Fluctuations in Marapi's explosions seem to parallel shallow volcanic earthquakes (figure 2), suggesting that the activity is primarily caused by degassing from a relatively shallow source through an open vent.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 2. Number of explosion, A-, and B-type earthquakes at Marapi, January 1991-June 1992. Courtesy of VSI.

Activity in June began with an explosion on the 1st. Continuous tremor followed, and on 6 June at 0227 another explosion occurred. Repeated explosions then deposited ~0.5 mm of ash on Bukittinggi. On 25 June, witnesses 2 km from the volcano (at the Batu Palano Volcano Observatory) heard a detonation and saw glow. A brownish-black cauliflower-shaped plume rose 1,800 m above the summit. During June, 45 deep and 312 shallow volcanic earthquakes, 108 volcanic tremor episodes, and 2,104 explosion earthquakes were recorded.

The strongest explosion occurred on 5 July at 0912. Bukittinggi and vicinity were covered by 0.5-1.5 mm of ash several hours later, with ash in some areas reaching 2 mm thickness. Ash also extended to Padang, ~10 km SW of the crater. Bombs killed one person, seriously injured three, and caused minor injuries to two others. The victims had climbed to the summit without consultation with the Mt. Marapi Volcano Observatory or local authorities, although a hazard warning had been in effect since 1987.

Information Contacts: W. Modjo, VSI.


July 1994 (BGVN 19:07) Citation IconCite this Report

Eruption sends ash column to ~6 km above sea level; summary of 1993 activity

An eruption at 0016 on 12 August 1994 sent an ash column to ~6 km altitude, a height of 3,200 m above the summit. Another explosion at 0046 ejected ash 280 m high. From the observatory ~7 km from the crater, observers noted incandescent projections as high as 300 m above the crater rim, accompanied by explosion sounds and vibrations. Ashfall in and around the city of Bukittinggi . . . ranged from 0.5 to 1 mm thick. Shallow volcanic earthquakes were recorded after the explosions, but gradually decreased.

Eruptions during the first half of 1993 (VSI, 1993a) produced lapilli and ash that were deposited in a radius of 1.5-3 km from the active crater. A dark gray column rose as high as 1,200 m above the summit . . . , but was usually in the 400-500 m range. Explosion earthquakes from January to July 1993 fluctuated between 1 and 77 events/day. The frequency of explosions increased in July 1993, but then decreased from August through December (VSI, 1993b). These explosions during Jul-Dec 1993 deposited lapilli and ash within a 750-m-radius of the active crater. Incandescent material fell within a few tens of meters of the crater rim. Average plume height in the second half of 1993 was 400-800 m, reaching a maximum of 3,200 m above the summit. Throughout 1993, deep volcanic earthquakes (A-type) were detected at a rate of 6-41/month. Between 42 and 338 shallow (B-type) events were recorded each month.

Information Contacts: VSI.


May 1999 (BGVN 24:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Declining activity and weak ash emissions

Activity of Marapi volcano was subdued during the period from late April to late May. From 27 April-3 May, only the emissions events increased (from 21 to 30) from the previous week; volcanic type-A, type-B, and tectonic events, along with eruptions, all decreased. During 4-17 May observed activity was limited to thin white-gray ash emissions that rose 100-400 m above the summit.

Information Contacts: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI), Jalan Diponegoro No. 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


August 1999 (BGVN 24:08) Citation IconCite this Report

Strong explosions within moderate background activity during June-September

Moderate eruptive activity at Marapi during June-September was interrupted by a few isolated powerful explosions. On 1 June a loud detonation was heard and earthquakes were felt in Bukittinggi village near the volcano. These phenomena were followed by an outpouring of thick dark ash from the crater forming a billowing cloud reaching 3,200 m above the summit. Events soon returned to more typical emissions of white or gray ash rising a few hundred meters and not accompanied by detonations. During 3-9 August white and sometimes black ash plumes reached 200-1,200 m above the peak. There were also increases in the number of volcanic and small explosive seismic events recorded that week.

J. Bardintzeff reported that at 0720 on 5 August a violent explosion sent an ash column, at first black but later gray in color, ~1,000 m above the summit. Fine ash fell at distances of up to 1 km E of the volcano at 0745. Two groups of people were standing near the crater at the time of the explosion. A group near the west side was safe, but three people of another group standing at the eastern crater rim were injured. Witnessed said that they were knocked down by the force of the explosion in which several 10-cm-diameter bombs were ejected. The injuries included cuts from debris and burns about the face, head, arms, and hands. Several people have been killed or injured at Marapi during the past ten years.

Information Contacts: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI), Jalan Diponegoro No. 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Jacques-Marie Bardintzeff, Laboratoire de Petrographie-Volcanologie, bat 504, Universite Paris-Sud, 91405, Orsay, France.


November 2000 (BGVN 25:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Large explosions in March 2000 eject ash

At 0553 on 11 March 2000, a significant explosion ejected thick black ash that rose 1,400 m above the summit. Explosions and ash emissions continued and increased in magnitude. At 0944 on the following day, a large explosion was heard more than 25 km away in the community of Bukittinggi. The explosion sent thick, black ash to a height of 3,000 m. Ashfall was reported ~350 km N of Marapi on the Lima Kaun District of Tanah Datar. Both major explosions were immediately preceded by shallow volcanic (B-type) earthquakes, while heightened seismicity, especially A- and B-type earthquakes, occurred up to a week before the explosions.

By 14 March explosions and ash emissions were continuing with decreased intensity. The gray-black plume rose 200 m above the crater rim. The following week seismicity increased notably with all earthquakes types increasing in number. During the [week of 28 March-3 April], black ash emissions continued to rise 100-200 m. Seismicity increased slightly compared to the previous week, but remained much lower than when the explosions initiated.

Information Contacts: Dali Ahmad, Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI), Jalan Diponegoro No. 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


January 2002 (BGVN 27:01) Citation IconCite this Report

Explosions during 2001; April ash plume reaches 2.0 km above the summit

On 11 March 2000, an explosion at Marapi ejected thick black ash that rose 1.4 km above the summit (BGVN 25:11). Explosive activity occurred again in 2001, peaking during 13-18 April, when a total of 150 explosions occurred that sent ash plumes to 2 km above the summit.

From January to February 2001, monthly A-type earthquakes had decreased from 15 to 8, and B-type earthquakes had decreased from 24 to 14. Gas-and-steam emissions, however, had increased from 11 events during January to 41 times during February. B-type earthquakes were registered on 7 April and continuous volcanic tremor occurred on 9 April.

On 14 April at 1600 a thick dark ash plume was visible from Bukittinggi, 15 km NW of Marapi's summit. On 16 April at 0600 an explosion sent a thick black ash plume to 700 m above the summit. At 0814 the same day a loud explosion was heard 8 km from the volcano, and a black mushroom-shaped ash plume rose to 2 km above the summit. Ejected incandescent fragments were seen clearly from Bukittinggi and then fell back to the crater rim. Ash fell over the villages of Sungai Puah, Air Angeh, and Andala, and in District X Koto, District Batipuh, District V Koto, Tanah Datar Regency, and Padang Panjang City in the zone S and SW of the summit. Ash deposits 1-4 km from the summit were 2-3 cm thick.

The Marapi Volcano Observatory increased the Alert Level from 1 to 2 following the activity that began on 13 April and a recommendation was issued by the local government to prevent people from traveling to the summit area.

Volcanic activity at Marapi continued through at least June 2001 (table 1). On 8 May at 2240, an explosion was accompanied by a moderate booming sound heard from the Tandikat observatory. Ash from the explosion spread to the NW, to Kota Bary, Padangpanjang, Lo Koto, and around the Tandikat observatory.

Table 1. Earthquakes and plumes reported at Marapi during 23 April-10 June 2001. Courtesy of VSI.

Date Deep volcanic (A-type) Shallow volcanic (B-type) Explosion Tectonic Observation (plume heights are above summit)
23 Apr-29 Apr 2001 58 -- 30 -- Gray-black plume to 3.0 km; volcanic materials fell 4.0 km from volcano. Five explosion earthquakes were accompanied by loud noise.
30 Apr-06 May 2001 27 22 4 -- Gray plume to 1.2 km above summit.
07 May-13 May 2001 16 46 14 1 Whitish-gray thick plume to 1.5 km above summit.
04 Jun-10 Jun 2001 2 -- 2 2 Explosion earthquakes had 33.6 mm maximum amplitudes.

An explosion that began at 0445 on 5 June sent ash to the SSW. The ash was 0.5-2 mm thick in places. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 through at least 10 June 2001.

Information Contacts: Dali Ahmad, Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI) (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


January 2005 (BGVN 30:01) Citation IconCite this Report

Small eruptions and seismicity during August to October 2004

The most recent previous explosive activity at Marapi peaked during 13-18 April 2001, when a total of 150 explosions occurred that sent ash plumes to 2 km above the summit (BGVN 27:01). This report covers the interval 5 August to 10 October 2004. On 5 August 2004 Marapi generated a small eruption with a gray to black ash cloud that rose to 500-1,000 m above the summit. Its hazard status was raised to Alert Level II (yellow), where it remained throughout this period.

Total numbers of seismic events from 2 August through 10 October 2004 are listed in table 2. During some weeks in August the number of earthquakes increased markedly. A thin white plume rose to 50 m above the summit on 10 August. During 16-29 August a thin white-gray plume rose to ~ 75-100 m. Similar plumes rose to ~ 50 m during 27 September-3 October and to ~ 300 m during 4-10 October. Seismic signals inferred to be related to emissions were elevated during several weeks of the reporting interval, particularly in August (table 2).

Table 2. A summary of volcanic seismicity at Marapi during 2 August to 10 October 2004. Courtesy of DVGHM.

Date Volc A Volc B Tremor Emission
02 Aug-08 Aug 2004 1 11 -- --
09 Aug-15 Aug 2004 2 6 -- 20
16 Aug-22 Aug 2004 -- 3 -- 21
23 Aug-29 Aug 2004 -- 3 2 14
20 Sep-26 Sep 2004 -- -- -- --
27 Sep-03 Oct 2004 1 -- -- --
04 Oct-10 Oct 2004 3 -- -- 8

There were no MODIS-MODVOLC alerts at Marapi during 2004.

Information Contacts: Directorate of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (DVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), Bureau of Meteorology, Northern Territory Regional Office, PO Box 40050, Casuarina, NT 0811, Australia (URL: http://www.bom.gov.au/info/vaac/).


July 2011 (BGVN 36:07) Citation IconCite this Report

Increased seismicity in 2004; small ash-bearing eruptions in 2011

This report first describes a 2005 increase in seismicity at Marapi, then presents a 2010 field map of Marapi's active crater area, and notes several plumes seen in 2011 to 1 km above the vent, some bearing ash. As previously noted, Marapi had generated explosions in 2000 and 2001, and a small ash-bearing eruption in 2004 (BGVN 25:11, 27:01, and 30:01).

Activity during 2005. During the week 8-14 July 2005, the number of earthquakes at Marapi increased dramatically. The seismic network recorded 112 deep volcanic earthquakes, compared to a normal average of 7 per week. Other changes were absent at the volcano, for example, fumarole temperatures were normal and gas emissions typically rose ~ 50 m above the summit. As a result of the increased seismicity, the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM) raised the Alert Level from 1 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Activity during 2010. During a 4-day visit to Marapi in July 2010, volcanologist Mary-Ann del Marmol created a sketch map of the area (figure 3). More detailed mapping and rock observations of the old crater side of the volcano were thwarted by dense vegetation there.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 3. A sketch map of Marapi's active crater and vicinity prepared in the course of fieldwork during July 2010. The labels "S.A. Bonjol" and "S.A. Sabu" identify drainages. Courtesy of Mary-Ann del Marmol (University of Ghent, Belgium).

Activity during 2011. According to CVGHM, seismicity increased during 21 June-3 August 2011. Observers noted that during June, July, and the first day of August white plumes rose 15-75 m above the summit craters. On 3 August dense gray plumes rose 300-1,000 m above the crater on eight occasions. That same day CVGHM raised the Alert Level again to 2. Visitors and residents were prohibited from going within a 3 km radius of the summit.

According to a news article, two eruptions from Marapi occurred on 9 August 2011.

Information Contacts: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://vsi.esdm.go.id/); Mary-Ann del Marmol, Geology and Soil Science Department, University of Ghent, Krijgslaan, 281 S8/A.326, B-9000 Gent, Belgium (URL: http://www.volcanology.ugent.be/delmarmol.htm); Metro TV News (URL: http://www.metrotvnews.com/).


May 2015 (BGVN 40:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Ash plumes in August and October 2011, March 2012, and February 2014

Eruptive activity at Marapi was absent for seven years following a short ash explosion in August 2004 (BGVN 30:01). Intermittent activity began again with eruptions in August and October 2011, followed by ash plumes during February-March 2012 and February 2014. The only additional information after the February 2014 activity was a Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM) report that during February-25 May 2015 diffuse white plumes rose as high as 300 m and seismicity fluctuated. The CVGHM kept the Alert Level at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), a status where residents and visitors are advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Activity during 2011. Ash eruptions on 3 August 2011 had been preceded by increased seismicity and white plumes since 21 June (BGVN 36:07). Dense gray plumes rose 300-1,000 m above the crater on eight occasions that day; two more eruptions occurred on 9 August. No further activity was noted until the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) reported that a pilot on 11 October saw a plume rising to an altitude of 3.7 km, though ash was not identified in satellite imagery. However, based on information from CVGHM, the VAAC reported that on 12 October 2011 an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3 km and drifted E.

Activity during 2012. According to a BNO News article from 5 March 2012, several eruptions had produced ash plumes during the previous week (approximately 27 February-4 March), with one that rose 1 km above the crater on 4 March and drifted 10 km S. An approximately 10-minute-long eruption produced an ash plume that rose 600 m on 18 May which was described in an MI News article. Media reports (Big Pond News) noted another eruption on 26 September with an ash plume that rose 1.5 km above the crater.

Activity during 2014. According to a news article from 5 February 2014 (Metro TV), four explosions occurred in early February. One was followed by ashfall in the Tarab River area and Batu Sangkar (17 km SE). News media reported an explosion on 26 February that caused ashfall in areas as far as 10 km S.

Information Contacts: Indonesian Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC), Bureau of Meteorology, Northern Territory Regional Office, PO Box 40050, Casuarina, NT 0811, Australia (URL: http://www.bom.gov.au/info/vaac/); Metro TV News (URL: http://www.metrotvnews.com/read/newsvideo/2011/08/10/133771/Gunung-Marapi-Masih-Waspada); BNO News (URL: http://channel6newsonline.com/2012/03/indonesias-mount-marapi-still-highly-active/); MI News 26 (URL: http://www.minews26.com/content/?p=16895); Big Pond News (URL: http://bigpondnews.com/articles/World/2012/09/27/Volcano_erupts_with_smoke_on_Sumatra_799600.html); Metro TV (URL: http://www.metrotvnews.com/); The Free Press Journal (URL: http://freepressjournal.in/volcano-erupts-in-indonesia-2/).


February 2017 (BGVN 42:02) Citation IconCite this Report

Phreatic explosion on 14 November 2015 causes ashfall on the SW flank

Explosions occurred at Marapi (not to be confused with the better known Merapi on Java) during August 2011; March, May, and September 2012; and February 2014 (BGVN 40:05). This report discusses activity during 2015 and 2016. All information was provided by the Indonesian Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM). During the reporting period, the Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4); residents and visitors were advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

According to PVMBG, diffuse white plumes rose as high as 300 above Marapi's crater during February-25 May 2015, 150 m above the crater during 1 August-16 November 2015, and 250 m above the crater during 1 November 2015-19 January 2016. Inclement weather often prevented observations.

Seismicity fluctuated during this time, dominated by earthquakes centered a long distance from the volcano. However, tremor increased significantly during August 2015 through at least the middle of January 2016 (figure 4). A phreatic explosion at 2233 on 14 November 2015, generated an ash plume, and ashfall was noted in Panyalaian and Aia Angek on the SW flank.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 4. Types and daily number of earthquakes recorded at Marapi during 1 January 2015-18 January 2016. Key: eruptive earthquakes (Letusan), emission-type "blowing" earthquakes (Hembus), shallow earthquakes (VB), deep earthquakes (VA), local earthquakes (Lokal), and long-distance earthquakes (Jauh). The terms shallow and deep were not quantified. Courtesy of PVMBG (23 January 2016 report).

Information Contacts: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


October 2017 (BGVN 42:10) Citation IconCite this Report

Four short ash explosions on 4 June 2017

Recent activity at the large Gunung Marapi stratovolcano on Sumatra has consisted of small ash plumes, with eruptions of a single day to periods of a few months. Ashfall around the active crater rim (figure 5) and thin layers of ash deposits seen in the crater wall (figure 6) provide evidence of both the recent and very long history of explosive activity. Since 2011 there have been eruptive episodes during August-October 2011, March-May 2012, 26 September 2012, February 2014, and 14 November 2015. As reported by the Indonesian Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), another series of explosions took place on 4 June 2017.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 5. Photo taken at the rim of the active Verbeek Crater at Marapi on 17 April 2014. The most recent eruption prior to this photo was during 3-26 February 2014. Courtesy of Axel Drainville.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 6. Photo showing the rim and interior wall of the Verbeek Crater at Marapi on 17 April 2014. Courtesy of Axel Drainville.

Four explosions on 4 June lasted less than one minute each, and generated ash plumes above the summit (figure 7) and drifted E. The explosions occurred at 1001 local time (0301 UTC), 1011, 1256, and 1550. Dense ash-and-steam plumes from each explosion rose 300 m, at least 700 m, 200 m, and 250 m above the crater, respectively. The Darwin VAAC reported ash at about 3.6 km altitude extending 37 km ENE, based on satellite imagery. Ejected bombs were deposited around the crater, and minor ashfall was reported in the Pariangan District (8 km SSE), Tanah Datar Regency. Seismicity increased after the explosions. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4); residents and visitors were advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 7. Photos of ash plumes rising from Marapi on 4 June 2017. The upper right image appears to show a smaller white plume to the right. Photos by PVMBG, posted to Twitter by Sutopo Purwo Nugroho (BNPB).

The broad summit area with multiple craters is a popular destination for hiking expeditions. A video posted by YouTube user "SiGiTZ" documented the experience of one group during visits on 30 April 2016 and on 11 May 2017. The video provides excellent views from 2016 of the entire crater complex and of the Verbeek Crater, from which a steam-and-gas plume appears to be rising. A video posted by YouTube user "yogi antula" included a television broadcast from the Anak Borneo Channel of a video from climbers in the crater area during the 4 June explosions, taken from approximately 400-500 m away. In that video, a significant dark ash plume can be seen rising from Bungsu-Verbeek crater complex, along with a smaller white plume from a closer location. The news report was concerned with 16 hikers known to be on the mountain; there were no later reports of anyone being injured.

References: SiGiTZ, 1 August 2017, Expedisi puncak Gunung Marapi Bukittingi Sumbar Mei 2017 (URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVxhWAbo2VA).

yogi antula, 5 June 2017, Video amatir pendakian saat Gunung Marapi Erupsi – 4 Juni 2017 (by Anak Borneo Channel) (URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8GAY6lsTLEE).

Information Contacts: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Badan Nasional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB), National Disaster Management Agency, Graha BNPB - Jl. Scout Kav.38, East Jakarta 13120, Indonesia (URL: http://www.bnpb.go.id/); Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, Badan Nasional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB) (URL: https://twitter.com/Sutopo_BNPB); Axel Drainville, Flickr.com, with Creative Commons license Attribution-NonCommercial 2.0 Generic (CC BY-NC 2.0, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/2.0/) (URL: https://www.flickr.com/photos/axelrd/).


June 2018 (BGVN 43:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Two explosions during April-May 2018 cause ashfall to the southeast

The Marapi volcano on Sumatra (not to be confused with the better known Merapi volcano on Java) previously erupted on 4 June 2017, generating dense ash-and-steam plumes that rose as high as 700 m above the crater and caused minor ashfall in a nearby district (BGVN 42:10). The volcano is monitored by the Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation or CVGHM).

On 27 April 2018, a phreatic explosion produced an ash plume that rose 300 m above the crater rim (figure 8); a thin ash deposit was reported in the Cubadak area (Tanah Datar Regency), about 12 km SE. Another explosion at 0703 on 2 May 2018 (figure 9) produced a voluminous dense gray ash plume that rose 4 km above the crater rim and drifted SE; seismic data recorded by PVMBG indicated that the event lasted just over 8 minutes (485 seconds).

The Alert Level has remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4), where it has been since August 2011. Residents and visitors have been advised not to enter an area within 3 km of the summit.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 8. Ash plume from a phreatic explosion at Marapi on 27 April 2018. Courtesy of Sutopo Purwo Nugroho (BNPB).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 9. An explosion from Marapi on 2 May 2018 sent an ash plume to a height of 4 km. Courtesy of PVMBG.

Information Contacts: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Badan Nasional Penanggulangan Bencana (BNPB), National Disaster Management Agency, Graha BNPB - Jl. Scout Kav.38, East Jakarta 13120, Indonesia (URL: http://www.bnpb.go.id/).


May 2023 (BGVN 48:05) Citation IconCite this Report

New explosive eruption with ash emissions during January-March 2023

Marapi in Sumatra, Indonesia, is a massive stratovolcano that rises 2 km above the Bukittinggi Plain in the Padang Highlands. A broad summit contains multiple partially overlapping summit craters constructed within the small 1.4-km-wide Bancah caldera and trending ENE-WSW, with volcanism migrating to the west. Since the end of the 18th century, more than 50 eruptions, typically characterized by small-to-moderate explosive activity, have been recorded. The previous eruption consisted of two explosions during April-May 2018, which caused ashfall to the SE (BGVN 43:06). This report covers a new eruption during January-March 2023, which included explosive events and ash emissions, as reported by Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM) and MAGMA Indonesia.

According to a press release issued by PVMBG and MAGMA Indonesia on 26 December, primary volcanic activity at Marapi consisted of white gas-and-steam puffs that rose 500-100 m above the summit during April-December 2022. On 25 December 2022 there was an increase in the number of deep volcanic earthquakes and summit inflation. White gas-and-steam emissions rose 80-158 m above the summit on 5 January. An explosive eruption began at 0611 on 7 January 2023, which generated white gas-and-steam emissions and gray ash emissions mixed with ejecta that rose 300 m above the summit and drifted SE (figure 10). According to ground observations, white-to-gray ash clouds during 0944-1034 rose 200-250 m above the summit and drifted SE and around 1451 emissions rose 200 m above the summit. Seismic signals indicated that eruptive events also occurred at 1135, 1144, 1230, 1715, and 1821, but no ash emissions were visually observed. On 8 January white-and-gray emissions rose 150-250 m above the summit that drifted E and SE. Seismic signals indicated eruptive events at 0447, 1038, and 1145, but again no ash emissions were visually observed on 8 January. White-to-gray ash plumes continued to be observed on clear weather days during 9-15, 18-21, 25, and 29-30 January, rising 100-1,000 m above the summit and drifted generally NE, SE, N, and E, based on ground observations (figure 11).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 10. Webcam image of the start of the explosive eruption at Marapi at 0651 on 7 January 2023. White gas-and-steam emissions are visible to the left and gray ash emissions are visible on the right, drifting SE. Distinct ejecta was also visible mixed within the ash cloud. Courtesy of PVMBG and MAGMA Indonesia.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 11. Webcam image showing thick, gray ash emissions rising 500 m above the summit of Marapi and drifting N and NE at 0953 on 11 January 2023. Courtesy of PVMBG and MAGMA Indonesia.

White-and-gray and brown emissions persisted in February, rising 50-500 m above the summit and drifting E, S, SW, N, NE, and W, though weather sometimes prevented clear views of the summit. An eruption at 1827 on 10 February produced a black ash plume that rose 400 m above the summit and drifted NE and E (figure 12). Similar activity was reported on clear weather days, with white gas-and-steam emissions rising 50 m above the summit on 9, 11-12, 20, and 27 March and drifted E, SE, SW, NE, E, and N. On 17 March white-and-gray emissions rose 400 m above the summit and drifted N and E.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 12. Webcam image showing an eruptive event at 1829 on 10 February 2023 with an ash plume rising 400 m above the summit and drifting NE and E. Courtesy of PVMBG and MAGMA Indonesia.

Information Contacts: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); MAGMA Indonesia, Kementerian Energi dan Sumber Daya Mineral (URL: https://magma.esdm.go.id/v1).

This compilation of synonyms and subsidiary features may not be comprehensive. Features are organized into four major categories: Cones, Craters, Domes, and Thermal Features. Synonyms of features appear indented below the primary name. In some cases additional feature type, elevation, or location details are provided.

Eruptive History

There is data available for 68 confirmed Holocene eruptive periods.

2023 Dec 3 - 2024 Oct 17 (continuing) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
2023 Dec 3 - 2024 Oct 17 (continuing) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 10 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2023 Dec 3    - - - - Explosion
2023 Dec 3    - - - - Ash Plume Dense dark gray ash plume rose 3 km above the vent.
2023 Dec 3    - - - - Pyroclastic flow Pyroclastic flow near the N flank descended as far as 3 km.
2023 Dec 3    - - - - Ashfall Ashfall was reported as far as 13 km away.
2023 Dec 3    - - - - Tephra Tephra fall was reported within 6 km from the vent.
2023 Dec 3    - - - - Fatalities Officials reported 23 deaths and 52 survivors, most of whom had suffered burns along with other injuries.
2023 Dec 3    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 2
2024 May 11    - - - - Lahar or Mudflow
2024 May 11    - - - - Evacuations Lahars generated by intense rainfall occurred around 2100 on 11 May 2024 and caused several fatalities, evacuations, and widespread damage.
2024 May 11    - - - - Fatalities As of 1700 on 16 May BNBP reported that the death toll had reached 67 people, while 20 remained missing and 40-44 had been injured.

2023 Jan 7 - 2023 Mar 17 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
2023 Jan 7 - 2023 Mar 17 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Ash Plume
2023 Jan 7    - - - - Explosion
2023 Jan 12    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 1

2018 Apr 27 - 2018 May 2 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater
2018 Apr 27 - 2018 May 2 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 1 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2018 May 2    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2017 Jun 4 - 2017 Jun 4 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater
2017 Jun 4 - 2017 Jun 4 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 9 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2017 Jun 4    - - - - Explosion PVMBG reported four explosions, each lasting less than one minute. The explosions occurred at 1001, 1011, 1256, and 1550, and produced dense ash-and-steam plumes that rose 300 m, at least 700 m, 200 m, and 250 m above the crater, respectively.
2017 Jun 4    - - - - Ash Plume Based on CVGHM and HIMAWARI-8 information, the Darwin VAAC reported an ash emission which rose to 3.7 km altitude and extended 35 km ENE. A ground report of the eruption reported the plume to 700 m above the summit at 0348 UTC. The eruption was confirmed by satellite imagery. It was last observed at 0550 UTC.
2017 Jun 4    - - - - Ash Plume Based on CVGHM information, the Darwin VAAC reported an ash emission at 0924 UTC which was moving E at 3.0 km altitude. CVGHM reported the eruption to 250 m above the summit. Ash was not identifiable in satellite imagery due to meteoric clouds.
2017 Jun 4    - - - - Ash Plume PVMBG reported four explosions, each lasting less than one minute. The explosions occurred at 1001, 1011, 1256, and 1550, and produced dense ash-and-steam plumes that rose 300 m, at least 700 m, 200 m, and 250 m above the crater, respectively. The plumes drifted E.
2017 Jun 4    - - - - Incandescent ejecta PVMBG reported four explosions, each lasting less than one minute. Ejected bombs were deposited around the crater.
2017 Jun 4    - - - - Bombs PVMBG reported four explosions, each lasting less than one minute. Ejected bombs were deposited around the crater.
2017 Jun 4    - - - - Seismicity (volcanic) PVMBG reported four explosions, each lasting less than one minute. Seismicity increased after the explosions.
2017 Jun 4    - - - - Ashfall PVMBG reported four explosions, each lasting less than one minute. Minor ashfall was reported in the Pariangan District (8 km SSE), Tanah Datar Regency.
2017 Jun 4    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 1

2015 Nov 14 - 2015 Nov 14 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater
2015 Nov 14 - 2015 Nov 14 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2015 Nov 14    - - - - Explosion A phreatic explosion at 2233 generated an ash plume, and ashfall was noted in Panyalaian and Aia Angek on the SW flank.
2015 Nov 14    - - - - Phreatic activity A phreatic explosion at 2233 generated an ash plume, and ashfall was noted in Panyalaian and Aia Angek on the SW flank.
2015 Nov 14    - - - - Ashfall A phreatic explosion at 2233 generated an ash plume, and ashfall was noted in Panyalaian and Aia Angek on the SW flank.
2015 Nov 14    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 1

2014 Feb 3 ± 2 days - 2014 Feb 26 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater
2014 Feb 3 ± 2 days - 2014 Feb 26 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 6 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2014 Feb 1
(in or after)
2014 Feb 5
(in or before)
Explosion According to a news article from 5 February 2014 four explosions from Marapi occurred in early February.
2014 Feb 1
(in or after)
2014 Feb 5
(in or before)
Ashfall According to a news article from 5 February four explosions from Marapi occurred in early February. One of the explosions was followed by ashfall in the Tarab River area and Batu Sangkar (17 km SE).
2014 Feb 1
(in or after)
2014 Feb 5
(in or before)
VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 1
2014 Feb 26    - - - - Explosion According to news articles, an explosion produced an ash plume that caused ashfall in areas as far as 10 km S.
2014 Feb 26    - - - - Ash Plume According to news articles, an explosion produced an ash plume that caused ashfall in areas as far as 10 km S.
2014 Feb 26    - - - - Ashfall According to news articles, an explosion produced an ash plume that caused ashfall in areas as far as 10 km S.

2012 Sep 26 - 2012 Sep 26 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Summit crater area
2012 Sep 26 - 2012 Sep 26 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Summit crater area

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2012 Sep 26    - - - - Ash Plume According to news articles, an eruption produced an ash plume that rose 1.5 km above the crater.
2012 Sep 26    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 1

2012 Mar 1 ± 3 days - 2012 May 18 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater (?)
2012 Mar 1 ± 3 days - 2012 May 18 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater (?)

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2012 Feb 27
(in or after)
2012 Mar 5
(in or before)
Ash Plume According to a news article from 5 March, several eruptions from Marapi produced ash plumes during the previous week.
2012 Mar 4    - - - - Ash Plume An ash plume rose 1 km above the crater and drifted 10 km S.
2012 Mar 4    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 1
2012 May 18    - - - - Ash Plume According to a news article, an approximately 10-minute-long eruption from Marapi produced an ash plume that rose 600 m.

2011 Aug 3 - 2011 Oct 12 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Summit Crater
2011 Aug 3 - 2011 Oct 12 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 5 Events for Episode 1 at Summit Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2011 Aug 3    - - - - Ash Plume Dense gray plumes rose 300-1,000 m above the crater on eight occasions.
2011 Aug 9    - - - - Explosion According to a news article, two eruptions from Marapi occurred.
2011 Oct 11    - - - - Ash Plume Based on a pilot report, the Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3.7 km.
2011 Oct 11    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 1
2011 Oct 12    - - - - Ash Plume Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that an eruption produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 3 km and drifted E.

2004 Aug 5 - 2004 Aug 5 (?) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
2004 Aug 5 - 2004 Aug 5 (?) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 6 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) After.
2004 Aug 5    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2001 Apr 13 - 2001 Jun 5 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater
2001 Apr 13 - 2001 Jun 5 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 8 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor) Before eruption.
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Lapilli
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
2001 Apr 13    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2000 Mar 11 - 2000 Apr 3 (in or after) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
2000 Mar 11 - 2000 Apr 3 (in or after) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 5 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
2000 Mar 11    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1999 Apr 16 (in or before) ± 15 days - 1999 Sep 16 (in or after) ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
1999 Apr 16 (in or before) ± 15 days - 1999 Sep 16 (in or after) ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 5 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Audible Sounds
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1999 Apr
(in or before)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1987 Jan 15 - 1994 Aug 12 (in or after) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater
1987 Jan 15 - 1994 Aug 12 (in or after) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 8 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Lapilli
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1987 Jan 15    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1992 Jul 5    - - - - Fatalities

1984 Nov 15 - 1984 Nov 15 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Kepundan Tuo, Kepundan B
1984 Nov 15 - 1984 Nov 15 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Kepundan Tuo, Kepundan B

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity weak or small
1984 Nov 15    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1983 Jul 2 ± 182 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Kepundan Tuo and Kepundan Verbeek
1983 Jul 2 ± 182 days - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1 at Kepundan Tuo and Kepundan Verbeek

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1983    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1982 Dec 16 ± 15 days - 1982 Dec 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1982 Dec 16 ± 15 days - 1982 Dec 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1982 Dec    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1982 Mar 10 (in or before) - 1982 May 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1982 Mar 10 (in or before) - 1982 May 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1982 Mar 10
(in or before)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1980 Mar 29 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1980 Mar 29 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Eruption cloud
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1980 Mar 29    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1975 Jan 16 ± 15 days - 1979 Sep 11 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater, B and C Craters
1975 Jan 16 ± 15 days - 1979 Sep 11 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 9 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater, B and C Craters

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion moderate
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Crater Summit.
   - - - -    - - - - Lahar or Mudflow
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1975 Jan    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1978 Sep 8    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1979 Apr 30    - - - - Fatalities

1973 Jul 24 - 1973 Jul 24 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Verbeek Crater
1973 Jul 24 - 1973 Jul 24 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Verbeek Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash weak or small
1973 Jul 24    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1970 Jul 26 ± 5 days - 1971 Aug 20 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Bungo, Bongsu, Tuo, B and C Craters
1970 Jul 26 ± 5 days - 1971 Aug 20 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1 at Bungo, Bongsu, Tuo, B and C Craters

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity Uncertain
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1970 Jul 26 ± 5 days    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

[ 1968 Dec 16 ± 15 days - 1968 Dec 16 ± 15 days ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Craters B and C
1968 Dec 16 ± 15 days - 1968 Dec 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Unknown

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Craters B and C

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity Uncertain
1968 Dec    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1967 Apr 16 ± 15 days - 1967 Jul 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Crater C, Bungsu Crater
1967 Apr 16 ± 15 days - 1967 Jul 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Crater C, Bungsu Crater

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion weak or small
1967 Apr    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1966 Mar 16 ± 15 days - 1966 Jun 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption B and C Craters, Kebun Bungo
1966 Mar 16 ± 15 days - 1966 Jun 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at B and C Craters, Kebun Bungo

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1966 Mar    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1958 Oct 17 - 1958 Oct 25 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1958 Oct 17 - 1958 Oct 25 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1958 Oct 17    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1958 Jun 23 - 1958 Jun 23 (?) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1958 Jun 23 - 1958 Jun 23 (?) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1958 Jun 23    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1954 Aug 16 ± 15 days - 1957 Dec 16 (in or after) ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption Kepundan Bongsu, B and C Craters
1954 Aug 16 ± 15 days - 1957 Dec 16 (in or after) ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 7 Events for Episode 1 at Kepundan Bongsu, B and C Craters

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Volcanic "smoke"
   - - - -    - - - - Audible Sounds
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1954 Aug    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1950 Sep 27 - 1952 Jun 14 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption Kepundan Bongsu, Kuniang, Jinggo
1950 Sep 27 - 1952 Jun 14 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 7 Events for Episode 1 at Kepundan Bongsu, Kuniang, Jinggo

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Blocks
   - - - -    - - - - Flames
1950 Sep 27    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1952 May 29    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1949 Oct 15 ± 5 days - 1949 Oct 22 ± 5 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
1949 Oct 15 ± 5 days - 1949 Oct 22 ± 5 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1949 Oct 15 ± 5 days    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1949 Apr 29 - 1949 Apr 30 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Kepundan Bongsu
1949 Apr 29 - 1949 Apr 30 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 5 Events for Episode 1 at Kepundan Bongsu

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Eruption cloud
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1949 Apr 29    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1943 ± 5 years Confirmed Eruption  

Episode 1 | Eruption Kepundan Kuniang, Kepundan Jinggo
1943 ± 5 years - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Kepundan Kuniang, Kepundan Jinggo

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Tephra
   - - - -    - - - - Crater Summit.

1932 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1932 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion Uncertain
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1932    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1930 Apr 9 (in or before) - 1930 Dec 7 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1930 Apr 9 (in or before) - 1930 Dec 7 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 5 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Lava flow
   - - - -    - - - - Lava dome Uncertain
1930 Apr 9
(in or before)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1930 May    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1929 Jun 22 - 1929 Jun 22 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Kepundan Bongsu
1929 Jun 22 - 1929 Jun 22 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Kepundan Bongsu

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1929 Jun 22    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1927 Feb 5 - 1927 Aug 3 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Kepundan Bongsu
1927 Feb 5 - 1927 Aug 3 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Kepundan Bongsu

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1927 Feb 5    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1925 Apr (?) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 0

Episode 1 | Eruption
1925 Apr (?) - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Lava flow
1925 Apr
(?)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1919 Feb 28 - 1919 Mar 1 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1919 Feb 28 - 1919 Mar 1 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1919 Feb 28    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1918 Aug 15 ± 5 days - 1918 Aug 15 ± 5 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1918 Aug 15 ± 5 days - 1918 Aug 15 ± 5 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1918 Aug 15 ± 5 days    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1918 Mar 8 - 1918 Mar 10 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1918 Mar 8 - 1918 Mar 10 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1918 Mar 8    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1917 Jun 16 - 1917 Sep 16 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1917 Jun 16 - 1917 Sep 16 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1917 Jun 16    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1916 May 5 - 1916 Jul 7 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1916 May 5 - 1916 Jul 7 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1916 May 5    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1915 Dec Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1915 Dec - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1915 Dec    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1914 Jul 1 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1914 Jul 1 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1914 Jul 1    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1913 Jun 23 - 1913 Jul 31 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1913 Jun 23 - 1913 Jul 31 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1913 Jun 23    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1911 Nov 2 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1911 Nov 2 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1911 Nov 2    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1910 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1910 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1910    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1907 Dec 17 - 1908 Sep Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1907 Dec 17 - 1908 Sep Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1907 Dec 17    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1905 Nov 1 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1905 Nov 1 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1905 Nov 1    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1904 Apr 18 - 1904 Apr 18 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1904 Apr 18 - 1904 Apr 18 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1904 Apr 18    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1889 Mar 27 - 1889 Apr 17 (?) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1889 Mar 27 - 1889 Apr 17 (?) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1889 Mar 27    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1888 Feb 19 - 1888 Mar 19 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1888 Feb 19 - 1888 Mar 19 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1888 Feb 19    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1886 Mar 31 - 1886 May 3 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
1886 Mar 31 - 1886 May 3 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1886 Mar 31    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1885 Nov 12 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1885 Nov 12 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1885 Nov 12    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1883 Dec - 1883 Dec Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1883 Dec - 1883 Dec Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1883 Dec    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1883 Jun 25 - 1883 Aug 27 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption
1883 Jun 25 - 1883 Aug 27 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
1883 Jun 25    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

[ 1878 Dec ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption
1878 Dec - Unknown Evidence from Unknown

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Audible Sounds
1878 Dec    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1876 Aug - 1877 Jun Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1876 Aug - 1877 Jun Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1876 Aug    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1876 Apr 4 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1876 Apr 4 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1876 Apr 4    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1871 Sep 24 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1871 Sep 24 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1871 Sep 24    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1871 Apr 24 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1871 Apr 24 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1871 Apr 24    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1863 May 23 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1863 May 23 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1863 May 23    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1861 Apr Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1861 Apr - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1861 Apr    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1855 Oct 2 - 1856 Jan Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
1855 Oct 2 - 1856 Jan Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 5 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Blocks
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1855 Oct 2    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1854 Aug 29 (in or after) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
1854 Aug 29 (in or after) - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1854 Aug 29
(in or after)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1845 Nov 16 - 1845 Nov 18 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1845 Nov 16 - 1845 Nov 18 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1845 Nov 16    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1833 - 1834 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1833 - 1834 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1833    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1822 Jul 23 - 1822 Jul 31 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
1822 Jul 23 - 1822 Jul 31 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Lava flow
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1822 Jul 23    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1807 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
1807 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1807    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1770 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption
1770 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1770    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
Deformation History

There is no Deformation History data available for Marapi.

Emission History

There is no Emissions History data available for Marapi.

Photo Gallery

Plumes rise from two small craters near the center of Marapi's broad E-W-trending summit. The background ridge in the shadow is the eastern rim of a larger crater, Kebun Bungo.

Photo by J. Mataheumual, 1978 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
Marapi, seen here from the W, has multiple summit craters along an E-W line. Marapi has produced frequent small-to-moderate explosive eruptions since the end of the 18th century. Gunung Marapi is not to be confused with the more well-known Merapi volcano on Java.

Photo by J. Matahelumual, 1978 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
The composite volcano Marapi rises 2,000 m above the Padang Highlands of central Sumatra in this view from Padankuda. Marapi has frequent historical eruptions from the broad E-W-trending line of summit craters.

Photo by Agus Solihin, 1991 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
Kawah Verbeek, also known as Kapundan Tenga or Kepundan Tenga, is located at the western end of a chain of several historically active craters along an E-W line at the summit of Sumatra's Marapi volcano.

Photo by Gede Suantika, 1992 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
The 325-m-wide Kepundan Bongsu, one of several historically active craters at the summit of Sumatra's Marapi volcano, is the largest and westernmost of a chain of craters covering a 1.2-km-long E-W line. Marapi is one of Sumatra's most active volcanoes, producing numerous small-to-moderate explosive eruptions since the end of the 18th century.

Photo by Gede Suantika, 1992 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
Three small craters, Kepundan A, B, and C, seen here right-to-left, respectively, from the E, are oriented transverse to the elongated E-W-trending summit of Marapi volcano in Sumatra. A plume rises from Kepundan C. The craters are among the many vents at Marapi that have been active during historical time.

Photo by Gede Suantika, 1992 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
An ash-rich eruption column rises above a town at the western foot of Sumatra's Marapi volcano on 10 May 1992. The activity was part of an ongoing eruption that began in January 1987 from Verbeek crater. The explosions frequently produced light ashfall in surrounding areas, but did not cause damage. The eruption included growth of a lava dome in the summit crater.

Photo by Gede Suantika, 1992 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
The small craters Kepundan B and C in the foreground, seen here from the N, are two of many historically active craters along the elongated summit of Marapi volcano on Sumatra. A thick plume in the background rises above the westernmost summit crater, Kawah Bongsu.

Photo by Gede Suantika, 1993 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
Marapi above rice fields below its western flank between Bukittinggi and Kotabaru, is Sumatra's most active volcano. More than 50 small-to-moderate explosive eruptions have occurred since the end of the 18th century. Marapi, not to be confused with the more well-known Merapi volcano on Java, has multiple summit craters and reaches 2,000 m above the Padang Highlands in central Sumatra.

Photo by M. A. Syarif, 1987 (Volcanological Society of Indonesia).
An ash plume rises from the summit crater of Marapi volcano in this undated photo, perhaps from the late 1980s or early 1990s. Marapi produces frequent small-to-moderate explosive eruptions that have been recorded since the 18th century.

Photo by Igan Sutawidjaja (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
Marapi, seen here in front of above rice fields, is Sumatra's most active volcano. More than 50 small-to-moderate explosive eruptions have occurred since the end of the 18th century. Marapi, not to be confused with the more well-known Merapi volcano on Java, has multiple summit craters and reaches 2,000 m above the Padang Highlands in central Sumatra.

Photo by Amin, 2003 (Centre of Volcanology & Geological Hazard Mitigation, Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
GVP Map Holdings

Maps are not currently available due to technical issues.

Smithsonian Sample Collections Database

The following 8 samples associated with this volcano can be found in the Smithsonian's NMNH Department of Mineral Sciences collections, and may be availble for research (contact the Rock and Ore Collections Manager). Catalog number links will open a window with more information.

Catalog Number Sample Description Lava Source Collection Date
NMNH 101680 Unidentified -- --
NMNH 101681 Unidentified -- --
NMNH 101682 Unidentified -- --
NMNH 101683 Unidentified -- --
NMNH 101684 Unidentified -- --
NMNH 101685 Unidentified -- --
NMNH 101686 Unidentified -- --
NMNH 117455-23 Obsidian -- --
External Sites