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Papandayan

Photo of this volcano
  • Country
  • Volcanic Region
  • Landform | Volc Type
  • Last Known Eruption
  • 7.32°S
  • 107.73°E

  • 2,665 m
    8,743 ft

  • 263100
  • Latitude
  • Longitude

  • Summit
    Elevation

  • Volcano
    Number

Most Recent Weekly Report: 1 March-7 March 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG issued a special report based on recent observations of Papandayan. The number of shallow volcanic earthquakes had increased in January and although the numbers fluctuated, low-frequency earthquakes also increased overall during January and February. Webcam images from the camera in the parking area showed incandescence emanating from Kawah Baru during the night on 22 February. A team of PVMBG scientists inspected the crater during 2100-2300 on an unspecified date to identify the source of the incandescence. They observed intense emissions rising from Kawah Baru, heard faint rumbling, and detected a strong sulfur odor, but did not see incandescence. Gas plumes rose 300 m from a solfatara. The color of the lake in Kawah Baru was greenish. Rumbling sounds from both the Kawah Mas and Kawah Baru solfatara complexes varied from weak to strong and gas emissions were sometimes intense. Solfatara temperatures were variable at Kawah Mas, Kawah Manuk, and Kawah Baru with a maximum temperature of 123.8 degrees Celsius. Sulfur dioxide gas concentrations were high at a distance of 500 m from the solfatara complexes. Based on the field observations PVMBG concluded that conditions at Papandayan were relatively normal. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 1-4) and tourists were advised to stay 500 m away from the active craters.

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


Most Recent Bulletin Report: June 2012 (BGVN 37:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Seismic increases in July and August 2011, with no eruption

Minor seismic activity and fumarolic plumes at Papandayan occurred in July 2005, July and August 2007, and April 2008 (BGVN 33:06; figure 9). This report covers a seismic swarm reported in July and August 2011. According to the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Papandayan is monitored by eight seismic stations (three permanent and five temporary).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 9. A map showing the location of Papandayan relative to many other Indonesian volcanoes of Holocene age. Courtesy of USGS.

Since April 2008, reports on seismicity were sparse. Then, in July 2011, seismicity increased; several hundred earthquakes were detected per month, and the occurrence of deep earthquakes nearly tripled. (figure 10, table 4).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 10. Papandayan crater as seen from the trail to Pondok Salada in August 2011. Courtesy of Daniel Quinn.

Table 4. The occurrence of various types of seismicity at Papandayan during July-24 August 2011. '--' indicates data not reported. Data from CVGHM.

Date Deep volcanic Shallow volcanic Low-frequency Distant Tectonic Local Tectonic
Jun 2011 31 339 9 112 37
Jul 2011 91 431 9 165 97
1-24 Aug 2011 94 501 -- 100 34

According to CVGHM, sulfur-dioxide (SO2) plumes rose 20-75 m above the vents between 1 June and at least 12 August 2011. Between 12-23 August, SO2 emissions ranged from 3-8 tons per day. Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels measured in the soil at 1 m depth in multiple areas did not increase. The temperature in the Manuk thermal area increased during 29 June to 12 August, and deformation measurements indicated inflation from 4 July to 10 August. On 13 August 2011, CVGHM announced that the Alert Level for Papandayan had been increased to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) based on seismicity, deformation, geochemistry, and visual observations. Visitors and residents were warned not to venture within 2 km of the active crater. The increase spurred multiple news reports.

On 14 August 2011, the Jakarta Globe reported that Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a spokesman for the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, had stated that gas was emanating from three craters - Walirang, Manuk and Balagadama. The same report quoted Surono, who heads CVGHM, as saying: "For now, we are not too worried about a major eruption. We are more concerned by the toxic gas."

According to other news reports, by mid-August 2011 local officials had completed evacuation planning, especially for three vulnerable villages within 7 km of the active crater. The report also mentioned that as of 19 August, residents near the volcano were continuing their normal activities, but that tourist visitation had dropped sharply at the popular destination.

On 26 August 2011, CVGHM reported that Papandayan's activity had not increased during the previous few days. Seismicity remained high, but stable, and was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes. Deformation measurements (such as leveling and Electronic Distance Measurement - EDM) showed no change, and water temperatures in multiple fumarolic areas and lakes remained relatively constant.

On 31 January 2012, CVGHM lowered the Alert Level from 3 to 2, without indication of eruption details or reasons for the change. As of 30 June 2012, the Alert Level remained at 2.

Crater emission videos. Video clips of crater emissions taken at Papandayan in October 2009, and at an uncertain other date can be found on YouTube:

Pwarr3n, 2009, YouTube (URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v=H_GIwMdkWT8).

Sweetmarias, undated, posted 13 August 2010, YouTube (URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSFoybapqe0).

Information Contacts: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Jakarta Globe (URL: http://www.thejakartaglobe.com).

Weekly Reports - Index


2023: March
2016: October
2015: April | May | June | July | November
2013: May | June
2012: February
2011: August
2008: January | April
2007: August
2005: June
2004: July
2003: January
2002: November | December


1 March-7 March 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG issued a special report based on recent observations of Papandayan. The number of shallow volcanic earthquakes had increased in January and although the numbers fluctuated, low-frequency earthquakes also increased overall during January and February. Webcam images from the camera in the parking area showed incandescence emanating from Kawah Baru during the night on 22 February. A team of PVMBG scientists inspected the crater during 2100-2300 on an unspecified date to identify the source of the incandescence. They observed intense emissions rising from Kawah Baru, heard faint rumbling, and detected a strong sulfur odor, but did not see incandescence. Gas plumes rose 300 m from a solfatara. The color of the lake in Kawah Baru was greenish. Rumbling sounds from both the Kawah Mas and Kawah Baru solfatara complexes varied from weak to strong and gas emissions were sometimes intense. Solfatara temperatures were variable at Kawah Mas, Kawah Manuk, and Kawah Baru with a maximum temperature of 123.8 degrees Celsius. Sulfur dioxide gas concentrations were high at a distance of 500 m from the solfatara complexes. Based on the field observations PVMBG concluded that conditions at Papandayan were relatively normal. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 1-4) and tourists were advised to stay 500 m away from the active craters.

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


19 October-25 October 2016 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 1 August-17 October seismicity at Papandayan fluctuated but decreased overall. Visual monitoring occurred from the Pakuwon Village post where observers noted white plumes rising at most 35 m above the crater. The Alert Level was lowered to 1 (on a scale of 1-4) on 19 October; residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the craters within a 500-m radius.

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 September-16 November seismicity at Papandayan was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes but also consisted of deep volcanic earthquakes, low-frequency earthquakes, harmonic tremor, and hybrid events. Visual monitoring occurred from the Pakuwon Village post where observers noted white plumes rising at most 35 m above the crater. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4); residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the craters within a 1-km radius.

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


22 July-28 July 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 1 June-13 July seismicity at Papandayan was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes but also consisted of deep volcanic earthquakes, low-frequency earthquakes, harmonic tremor, and hybrid events. Visual monitoring occurred from the Pakuwon Village post; where observers noted white plumes rising at most 30 m above the crater. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4); residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the craters within a 1-km radius.

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


10 June-16 June 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 1-11 June shallow volcanic earthquakes at Papandayan occurred at an average rate of 26 events/day. Visual monitoring occurred from the Pakuwon Village post; observers noted white plumes rising at most 50 m above the crater. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4); residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the craters within a 1-km radius.

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 22 April-25 May seismicity at Papandayan was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes but also consisted of volcanic earthquakes, low-frequency earthquakes, tremor, and local and remote tectonic earthquakes. Visual monitoring occurred from the Pakuwon Village post; observers noted white plumes rising at most 30 m above the crater. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4); residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the craters within a 1-km radius.

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


22 April-28 April 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 1 March-21 April seismicity at Papandayan was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes but also consisted of volcanic earthquakes, low-frequency earthquakes, and local and remote tectonic earthquakes. Visual monitoring occurred from the Pakuwon Village post; observers noted white plumes rising at most 100 m above the crater. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4); residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the craters within a 1-km radius.

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


5 June-11 June 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that observers at the Papandayan observation post in Pakuwon Village reported no significant changes at Papandayan during May and the beginning of June. They noted that during May plumes rose less than 100 m above Baru and Emas craters, and during 1-5 June plumes rose 20 m at most.

The energy of volcanic earthquakes sharply increased during 2-4 May, and then decreased on 5 May. The average number of volcanic earthquakes declined from 35-49 events per day in early-to-mid May, to 14 events per day in mid-to-late May. The number of events continued to decline through the beginning of June. The number of local tectonic earthquakes also decreased significantly from an average of 67-71 events per day in early-to-mid May, to 2-17 events per day the latter half of May, to about 2 events per day in early June.

Based on the visual observations and decline in seismicity, CVGHM lowered the Alert Level to 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


1 May-7 May 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that during 1 April-5 May soil temperatures around Papandayan's crater fluctuated but increased overall. During 1-5 May seismicity increased, prompting CVGHM to raise the Alert level to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) on 5 May. Tourists and residents were reminded not to venture within 2 km of the active crater.

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


1 February-7 February 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM lowered the Alert Level for Papandayan from 3 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) on 31 January. No eruption details or reasons for the change were given in the report.

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


24 August-30 August 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

On 26 August CVGHM reported that Papandayan showed minor to no changes in recent seismicity, deformation, geochemistry, and visual observations; therefore the Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Seismicity remained high, but stable, and was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes. Deformation measurements showed no change, and water temperatures in multiple fumarolic areas and lakes remained relatively unchanged. Sulfur dioxide gas emissions decreased from 8 tons per day on 12 August to 6 tons per day on 23 August. Carbon dioxide in the soil at a 1 m depth in multiple areas did not increase. Visitors and residents were advised not to venture within 2 km of the active crater.

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


10 August-16 August 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

On 13 August CVGHM reported that based on seismicity, deformation, geochemistry, and visual observations, the Alert Level for Papandayan was raised to 3 (on a scale of 1-4). During 1 June-12 August sulfur plumes rose 20-75 m above the vents. During the same period, seismicity increased with several hundreds of earthquakes detected per month. Temperature measurements in the Manuk thermal area indicated a relative increase from 29 June to 12 August and deformation measurements indicated inflation from 4 July to 10 August. Visitors and residents were not to venture within 2 km of the active crater.

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


9 April-15 April 2008 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that the seismic network recorded one volcanic tremor signal from Papandayan on 15 April. On 16 April, measurements of summit fumaroles revealed an increase in temperature and changes in water chemistry since 7 April. White plumes continued to rise to an altitude of 2.7 km (8,900 ft) a.s.l. and did not change. CVGHM increased the Alert Level to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and reminded visitors and residents not to venture within 1 km of the active crater.

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


9 January-15 January 2008 Citation IconCite this Report

On 7 January, CVGHM lowered the Alert Level at Papandayan from 2 to 1 (on a scale of 1-4) due to a decrease in activity over approximately four months. Seismic events decreased in number after 2 August 2007, and earthquake tremor was not recorded since 14 November 2007. Data from deformation-monitoring instruments indicated deflation. White fumarolic plumes rose to an altitude of 2.9 km (9,500 ft) a.s.l.

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


1 August-7 August 2007 Citation IconCite this Report

On 2 August, CVGHM raised the Alert Level at Papandayan from 1 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) due to increased activity at the volcano. During 15 July-1 August, the number of volcanic earthquakes increased. By 31 July, the temperatures of fumaroles had increased 10 degrees C above normal levels in Mas crater. Temperatures were 3.5 degrees C above normal levels in Balagadama crater since 26 June. On 1 August, a diffuse white plume rose to an altitude of 2.7 km (8,900 ft) a.s.l. Associated with the increase in Alert Level, villagers and tourists were not permitted within a 1 km radius of the active craters.

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


15 June-21 June 2005 Citation IconCite this Report

On 16 June, DVGHM raised the Alert Level at Papandayan from 1 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) due to increased activity at the volcano. Beginning in early June 2005 the number of volcanic earthquakes increased in comparison to the previous months and the temperatures of fumaroles increased 3-9 degrees C above normal levels. People were not permitted to visit Mas and Baru craters.

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


14 July-20 July 2004 Citation IconCite this Report

DVGHM reported that seismic and volcanic activity were at heightened levels on 17 July at Papandayan. The number of volcanic earthquakes increased on 13 July from 1-3 per day to 7-9, then further increased to 57 earthquakes on 16 July. The temperature at Baru crater I increased from 84 to 88.5 °C, and the temperature of Baru crater II rose from 89 to 102 °C. The Alert Level was raised from 1 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and visits to the crater were prohibited.

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


22 January-28 January 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

On 13 January VSI decreased the Alert Level at Papandayan from 3 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Seismicity decreased during 13-19 January in comparison to the previous week, with ash emissions rising 25-100 m above the craters. Seismicity slightly increased during 20-26 January.

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


24 December-30 December 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

During 9-22 December, low-level ash plumes were continuously emitted from Papandayan's Baru crater. On 12 December at 1758 an explosion occurred, causing stepped landslides on the wall of Nangkak crater. Small lahars traveled down Cibeureum Gede and Ciparugpug rivers on 13 December at 1600 and on 14 December at 1700. On 21 December at 1154 stepped landslides occurred again. Papandayan remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


11 December-17 December 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

During 2-8 December, ash plumes continually emitted from Papandayan's Baru crater rose 150-400 m above the rim and drifted NE. Explosions occurred on 4 December at 0700 and on 8 December at 1758. The number of shallow volcanic earthquakes decreased during the report week, while deep volcanic and tectonic earthquakes increased in comparison to the previous week. Papandayan remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


20 November-26 November 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

During 22-25 November at Papandayan small-scale continuous ash-and-gas explosions occurred, sending plumes to 300-600 m above the volcano. Tremor, tectonic earthquakes, and shallow and deep-volcanic earthquakes were recorded. An eruption on the 20th produced a NE-directed blast that sent material as far as 2 km away from the crater, burning the crater-facing sides of trees as far as 400 m away. The eruption covered the area around the volcano in 4-8 cm of ash. Papandayan remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4), with a 4-km-wide exclusion zone.

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


13 November-19 November 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

An eruption began at Papandayan on 11 November that led to the evacuation of thousands of residents near the volcano. Increased seismicity was first recorded in early October 2002 when deep volcanic earthquakes occurred. By mid-October, shallow volcanic earthquakes were recorded, which were indicative of earthquake migration towards the surface. These earthquakes continued until the day of the eruption. On 11 November felt earthquakes and tremor were recorded and at 1530 there was a phreatic eruption at Kawah Baru Crater. At 1650 landslides from the W wall of the old crater complex traveled to the river and became lahars. By the 14th the eruption had progressed into a phreatomagmatic or magmatic phase, and 17 eruptions had produced thick gray ash clouds 500-1,000 m above the volcano. Many people who did not live in the most dangerous areas were allowed to return to their homes on the 14th. A relatively large eruption on the 15th at 0630 generated an ash cloud that reached 5 km above the summit. At this point Papandayan was at Alert Level 4 (on a scale of 1-4). During 16-18 November, volcanism was dominated by ash emissions that rose to 700 m and seismicity was dominated by continuous emission and explosion earthquakes. On the 18th at 1200 the Alert Level at Papandayan was reduced to 3.

Sources: The Jakarta Post; Reuters; Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as CVGHM)


6 November-12 November 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

News agencies reported that an eruption began at Papandayan on 11 November. According to a police officer on duty in a nearby town, ash and lava emitted from one of the volcano's craters began flowing into the nearby Cibeureum River at 1600. Evacuations from towns near the volcano involved 1,000-2,000 residents. The Darwin VAAC reported that a small, low-level plume may have been visible on satellite imagery.

Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP); Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC); Associated Press


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.

07/1998 (BGVN 23:07) Minor phreatic explosions eject mud and gas on 23 June

11/2002 (BGVN 27:11) Large explosive eruption with landslide and lahars begins 11 November 2002

07/2003 (BGVN 28:07) After the explosions of November 2002, seismicity and eruptions waned

08/2004 (BGVN 29:08) Increased seismicity and elevated crater temperatures in July

06/2008 (BGVN 33:06) Minor seismic activity and fumarolic plumes through 16 April 2008

06/2012 (BGVN 37:06) Seismic increases in July and August 2011, with no eruption




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


July 1998 (BGVN 23:07) Citation IconCite this Report

Minor phreatic explosions eject mud and gas on 23 June

The normal seismic activity of about ten events per day increased significantly after 20 June. Deep and shallow seismic events with large amplitudes were recorded during the last week of June and first few days of July. The increase also included events with low amplitude and long duration corresponding to gas emission from Emas Crater. Small phreatic explosions ejected gas and mud from fumarolic vents on 23 June, lofting material up to 5 m above the crater. A white plume under moderate pressure reached heights of 10-100 m in the first week of July. After 20 June there was an increased amount of A-type seismicity, but B-type, tectonic, and emission earthquakes changed little or decreased (table 1). Tremors and felt shocks began to be recorded at this time.

Table 1. Daily seismic events at Papandayan in late June and early July 1998. Data courtesy of VSI.

Date Volcanic A Volcanic B Tectonic Emission Tremor Felt Shock
22 Jun-29 Jun 1998 26 80 36 162 -- --
30 Jun-05 Jul 1998 83 39 39 15 11 1

The Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI) installed four telemetric seismographs and eight temporary data-loggers around Papandayan. On 3 July they installed an infrasonic microphone on the crater to monitor the eruption.

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


November 2002 (BGVN 27:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Large explosive eruption with landslide and lahars begins 11 November 2002

On 11 November 2002 a substantial eruption began at Papandayan. The last reported activity here, during June 1998, consisted of increased seismicity and minor phreatic explosions that ejected mud and gas (BGVN 23:07). The volcano lies ~50 km SE of Bandung.

The Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI) reported that the seismograph recorded a deep volcanic earthquake in early October 2002. During mid-October, hypocenters of shallow volcanic earthquakes were migrating toward the surface. Volcanic earthquakes continued until the eruption.

One or more earthquakes at 0452 and 0454 on 11 November were felt with a Modified Mercalli intensity of II. The shaking is thought to have triggered instability at Papandayan. Associated tremor signals during 1200-1506 had ~6 mm amplitudes (peak-to-peak).

At 1530 on 11 November a phreatic eruption vented from the 1942 crater, Kawah Baru. An hour and 20 minutes later, a landslide began. The landslide, which occurred at the W wall of the old crater complex, advanced into the Cibeureum Gede river where it became a lahar and flood.

Figures 1, 2, and 3 show some of the near-source effects and processes seen two days after the 11 November eruption. The Cibeureum river is a tributary of the major, NNE-flowing Cimanuk river, which empties on Java's N coast. The lahar and flood destroyed eight houses, two bridges, and rice fields. News and web articles also mentioned some evacuations, damage to tea farms, and the reduced water-storage capacity of some impacted reservoirs. There were no reported deaths.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 1. A photo showing Papandayan's phreatomagmatic eruption at Kawah Baru on 13 November 2002. For scale, note several people in open areas in the center foreground and beyond. Photo taken by Mas Atje Purbawinata (VSI).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 2. On 11 November 2002, Papandayan's cone Gunung Nangklak underwent slope failure at the old crater complex's W wall, leaving behind a fresh landslide scarp (right). The large cloud in the background consists of a modest background-level ash emission from Kawah Baru. Photograph taken on 13 November 2002 by R. D. Hadisantono (VSI).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 3. Papandayan's November eruption and landslide resulted in a lahar and flood on the Cibeureum Gede river. This is a view looking across a portion of that river as seen several days after the 11 November 2002 lahar and flood started. Downstream is towards the left. This photo taken on 13 November 2002 by Mas Atje Purbawinata (VSI).

The eruption progressed into a phreatomagmatic (or magmatic) eruption until 14 November (figure 4). During this interval there were seven eruptive vents inside Kawah Baru; four of these discharged only sporadic magmatic eruptions, while three produced continuous ash eruptions. On the 14th, a total of 17 magmatic eruptions occurred between 0017 and 1150. The eruptions produced thick gray ash that reached 500-1,000 m above the vent.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 4. Papandayan discharges one of its many 14 November 2002 eruptions. Courtesy VSI.

On 15 November at 0630 a larger eruption produced thick dark ash that reached 5.0 km above the summit. The Alert Level was raised to 4 (on a scale of 1-4).

On 16 November during 0600-1800 a thick white ash plume rose 300 m and drifted W. The seismograph recorded signals interpreted as intervals of continuous explosion, and continuous emission. The seismicity of that interval was also characterized by earthquakes (six volcanic, and one tectonic) and continuous tremor.

VSI reported that during 1800-0600 on 17-18 November, volcanic activity at Papandayan was dominated by ash emissions, while medium-pressure ash explosions occurred continuously. A thin white ash plume rose ~200-700 m above the crater and drifted W. The seismograph recorded explosion and tectonic earthquakes, along with continuous tremor and 2 volcanic earthquakes. Seismic signals also disclosed continuous emissions. The Alert Level was reduced to 3 at 1200 on 18 November.

On 19 November, a thick white ash plume of weak to medium pressure rose 200-500 m above the crater and drifted W. The seismograph recorded 11 shallow volcanic and 3 tectonic earthquakes, along with continuous tremor.

On 20 November a thick white ash plume reached 100-1,500 m above the crater and drifted W. Heavy rain occurred at 0502. An eruption from Nangklak crater produced a `dark-gray ash plume that reached 1.5 km above the crater and drifted NE, then N and NW. Ashfall reached a thickness up to 2 cm within a 2-km radius, directed towards the NW.

Earthquakes recorded on 20 November included 17 shallow volcanic, 1 deep volcanic, 2 tectonic, and 1 low frequency. Continuous tremor and continuous emissions of medium intensity also occurred.

A visit to the crater the next day confirmed that energetic eruptions had taken place on 20 November (figures 5, 6, and 7). Scientists found that a directed lateral blast had traveled NE as far as 2 km, stripping all trees growing along the inside of the horseshoe-shaped crater. Within this crater, the blast left blocks and smaller fragments of altered rocks and a 4-8 cm thick deposit of wet ash. Within a 500 m radius of the crater, the sides of some trees had charred due to contact with passing high-temperature gases from the blast, which had discharged from Nangklak crater (figure 6). Breadcrust bombs with maximum diameters of 50 cm were found around Nangklak crater.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 5. This 21 November 2002 photo documents Papandayan's multiple active vents. All the vents resided in craters within the volcano's larger horseshoe-shaped crater. Three white plumes issued from Baru crater (left), and one, more substantial plume came from the then very active Nangklak crater (right). Photographed by Igan S. Sutawidjaja (VSI).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 6. This photo was taken a day after Papandayan's 20 November eruption at a spot ~ 300 m from Nangklak crater. The area appears to be covered by an unspecified thickness of tephra. Widespread damage seen in the photo includes the near absence of smaller vegetation on the present ground surface, and the denuded, scorched, and splintered remnants of the larger vegetation. The charred sides of remaining tree stumps faced towards Nangklak crater. For scale, note the open jack-knife perched in the broken end of the closest tree. Photographed on 21 November 2002 by Igan S. Sutawidjaja (VSI).
Figure (see Caption) Figure 7. At Papandayan, ash explosions at Kawah Nangklak on 21 November 2002. Photographed by Igan S.Sutawidjaja (VSI).

On 21 November, volcanism was dominated by explosions and ash emissions of medium-high intensity. Crater wall collapse also occurred, mostly at Kawah Baru. Through 0745 there were 98 explosions; they produced white gray ash that rose 200-600 m high and drifted W. The seismograph recorded a total of 10 shallow volcanic and 1 low-frequency earthquake, along with continuous tremor and emission (medium-high intensity). Citizens were asked to stay at least 4 km from the vent.

On 22 November there was a low level of continuous ash-and-gas explosions. A thick white plume with ash rose 300-600 m above Nangklak crater. Seismicity was dominated by explosion earthquakes (maximum amplitude, 23 mm) and also included shallow volcanic, deep volcanic, and tectonic earthquakes. A medium-intensity ash explosion along with lahars occurred along the Cibeureum Gede, and the Ciparugpug rivers.

During 23-25 November activity at Papandayan was dominated by ash explosions reaching more than 600 m above Nangklak crater. Six other craters emitted a white plume up to 200-400 m.

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


July 2003 (BGVN 28:07) Citation IconCite this Report

After the explosions of November 2002, seismicity and eruptions waned

On 11 November 2002, ash eruptions occurred at Papandayan (BGVN 27:11 and figure 8). Subsequently, seismic and eruptive activity waned, although gas emission continued (ending 4 May 2003). Lessening seismicity and volcanism in January 2003 resulted in a reduction of the hazard status from 3 to 2 (on a scale of 1 to 4, where 4 is the highest). Reduction in the activity continued through the beginning of May 2003 at which time the Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI) terminated its weekly reporting on Papandayan.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 8. Photograph of the new crater at Papandayan formed on 11 November 2002; by 8 December it was no longer active and was filled by water. The crater diameter is ~ 300 m. Courtesy of VSI.

During December 2002, white-gray ash plume was emitted continually from Baru crater and rose 150-400 m to the NE. [After the week of 16-22 December only gas plumes were emitted (described as "white ash emission").] As the activity level reduced (table 2) the typical height of the plume dropped from 150-400 m during December and early January 2003 to 75-250 m by late-January.

Table 2. Weekly seismic events at Papandayan from 2 December 2002 to 4 May 2003. Courtesy of VSI.

Date Deep Shallow Tectonic Avalanches
02 Dec-08 Dec 2002 9 10 17 --
09 Dec-15 Dec 2002 1 25 -- --
16 Dec-22 Dec 2002 1 20 21 --
23 Dec-29 Dec 2002 3 16 12 --
30 Dec-05 Jan 2003 28 42 29 --
06 Jan-12 Jan 2003 11 21 33 7
13 Jan-19 Jan 2003 7 11 16 12
20 Jan-26 Jan 2003 14 30 29 --
27 Jan-02 Feb 2003 8 25 30 --
03 Feb-09 Feb 2003 3 18 12 1
10 Feb-16 Feb 2003 -- 14 18 2
17 Feb-23 Feb 2003 3 24 17 3
24 Feb-02 Mar 2003 2 1 3 --
03 Mar-09 Mar 2003 -- 1 -- 7
10 Mar-16 Mar 2003 1 10 16 --
17 Mar-23 Mar 2003 2 8 24 --
24 Mar-30 Mar 2003 2 10 14 --
31 Mar-06 Apr 2003 3 15 33 --
07 Apr-13 Apr 2003 1 8 9 --
14 Apr-20 Apr 2003 2 12 16 --
21 Apr-27 Apr 2003 8 5 23 --
28 Apr-04 May 2003 2 7 3 --

Two explosions occurred at 0700 on 4 December and at 1758 on 8 December 2002, and another occurred at 1758 on 12 December. During the week of 2-8 December, shallow volcanic earthquakes decreased, while deep volcanic and tectonic earthquakes increased. During the subsequent week, shallow earthquakes increased, while deep earthquakes decreased (table 2). Insignificant lahars occurred at Cibeureum Gede and Ciparugpug rivers at 1600 on 13 December and at 1700 on 14 December. The movement of stepped landslides on the wall of Nangklak crater were recorded on the seismograph throughout most of December; the last landslide occurred at 1154 on 21 December. The hazard level was reduced to 2 by the week of 13-19 January 2003.

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


August 2004 (BGVN 29:08) Citation IconCite this Report

Increased seismicity and elevated crater temperatures in July

Volcanic activity increased at Papandayan beginning 17 July 2004. On 13 July, volcanic earthquakes increased from a range of between 1-3 events per day to 7-9 events per day and increased to 57 events on 16 July (table 3). The temperature on Baru Crater I increased from 84 to 88.5°C, and at Baru Crater II the temperature increased from 89 to 102°C. A visible thin white plume rose 25-100 m. This activity prompted a rise in the hazard status to Alert Level II. During the following week volcanic and local tectonic earthquakes increased, but there were no emissions. A white thin plume rose to 50-150 m above the summit. After 26 July seismicity declined and remained low through at least mid-August. The thin white plume was observed throughout this time, but its maximum height decreased each week until it was only 25-75 m above the summit during 9-15 August.

Table 3. Seismicity at Papandayan, 5 July-15 August 2004. Courtesy of DVGHM.

Date Volcanic A Volcanic B Local Tectonic Emission
05 Jul-11 Jul 2004 -- 21 -- --
12 Jul-18 Jul 2004 20 101 4 2
19 Jul-25 Jul 2004 65 129 10 --
26 Jul-01 Aug 2004 8 44 8 --
02 Aug-08 Aug 2004 4 32 3 --
09 Aug-15 Aug 2004 1 46 4 --

Information Contacts: Dali Ahmad, Hetty Triastuty, Nia Haerani, Suswati, and Sri Kisyati, Directorate of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, Jalan Diponegoro No. 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia, URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


June 2008 (BGVN 33:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Minor seismic activity and fumarolic plumes through 16 April 2008

Our last report on Papandayan (BGVN 29:08) described a modest surge in seismicity that began in July 2004, which rose for a short time but began to subside in mid-August 2004. We received no subsequent reports until June 2005. This report discusses non-eruptive restlessness from early June 2005 through the middle of April 2008, including wide fumarolic temperature variations, seismicity, and occasional minor steam plumes.

Beginning in early June 2005, the number of volcanic earthquakes increased in comparison to the previous months, and fumarole temperatures increased 3-9°C above normal levels. People were not permitted to visit Mas and Baru craters. On 16 June 2005, the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM) in Indonesia raised the Alert Level at Papandayan from 1 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) due to increased activity at the volcano. The Alert Level remained at 2 at least through 13 December 2005.

No subsequent reports were received until July 2007. On 15 July there was one volcanic earthquake; the next day 2-10 volcanic earthquakes were recorded. By 31 July, fumarole temperatures had increased 10°C above normal levels in Mas crater. On 1 August up to 53 volcanic earthquakes were recorded and a diffuse white plume rose to an altitude of 2.7 km. Residents and tourists were not permitted within a 1 km radius of the active craters.

On 2 August 2007, CVGHM raised the Alert Level from 1 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) due to increased seismic activity at the volcano. Seismic events decreased in number after 2 August; earthquake tremors were not recorded after 14 November 2007, and on 7 January 2008, CVGHM lowered the Alert Level at Papandayan from 2 to 1 due to the decrease in activity during the previous four months. Data from deformation-monitoring instruments indicated deflation. White fumarolic plumes rose to an altitude of 2.9 km.

No subsequent reports were received until April 2008. According to the CVGHM, on 15 April the seismic network recorded one tremor signal. On 16 April, measurements of summit fumaroles revealed that the temperature had increased and water chemistry had changed since 7 April. White plumes continued to rise to an altitude of 2.7 km. CVGHM again increased the Alert Level to 2 and warned people not to venture within 1 km of the active crater.

Information Contacts: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro No. 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://vsi.esdm.go.id/).


June 2012 (BGVN 37:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Seismic increases in July and August 2011, with no eruption

Minor seismic activity and fumarolic plumes at Papandayan occurred in July 2005, July and August 2007, and April 2008 (BGVN 33:06; figure 9). This report covers a seismic swarm reported in July and August 2011. According to the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Papandayan is monitored by eight seismic stations (three permanent and five temporary).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 9. A map showing the location of Papandayan relative to many other Indonesian volcanoes of Holocene age. Courtesy of USGS.

Since April 2008, reports on seismicity were sparse. Then, in July 2011, seismicity increased; several hundred earthquakes were detected per month, and the occurrence of deep earthquakes nearly tripled. (figure 10, table 4).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 10. Papandayan crater as seen from the trail to Pondok Salada in August 2011. Courtesy of Daniel Quinn.

Table 4. The occurrence of various types of seismicity at Papandayan during July-24 August 2011. '--' indicates data not reported. Data from CVGHM.

Date Deep volcanic Shallow volcanic Low-frequency Distant Tectonic Local Tectonic
Jun 2011 31 339 9 112 37
Jul 2011 91 431 9 165 97
1-24 Aug 2011 94 501 -- 100 34

According to CVGHM, sulfur-dioxide (SO2) plumes rose 20-75 m above the vents between 1 June and at least 12 August 2011. Between 12-23 August, SO2 emissions ranged from 3-8 tons per day. Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels measured in the soil at 1 m depth in multiple areas did not increase. The temperature in the Manuk thermal area increased during 29 June to 12 August, and deformation measurements indicated inflation from 4 July to 10 August. On 13 August 2011, CVGHM announced that the Alert Level for Papandayan had been increased to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) based on seismicity, deformation, geochemistry, and visual observations. Visitors and residents were warned not to venture within 2 km of the active crater. The increase spurred multiple news reports.

On 14 August 2011, the Jakarta Globe reported that Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a spokesman for the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, had stated that gas was emanating from three craters - Walirang, Manuk and Balagadama. The same report quoted Surono, who heads CVGHM, as saying: "For now, we are not too worried about a major eruption. We are more concerned by the toxic gas."

According to other news reports, by mid-August 2011 local officials had completed evacuation planning, especially for three vulnerable villages within 7 km of the active crater. The report also mentioned that as of 19 August, residents near the volcano were continuing their normal activities, but that tourist visitation had dropped sharply at the popular destination.

On 26 August 2011, CVGHM reported that Papandayan's activity had not increased during the previous few days. Seismicity remained high, but stable, and was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes. Deformation measurements (such as leveling and Electronic Distance Measurement - EDM) showed no change, and water temperatures in multiple fumarolic areas and lakes remained relatively constant.

On 31 January 2012, CVGHM lowered the Alert Level from 3 to 2, without indication of eruption details or reasons for the change. As of 30 June 2012, the Alert Level remained at 2.

Crater emission videos. Video clips of crater emissions taken at Papandayan in October 2009, and at an uncertain other date can be found on YouTube:

Pwarr3n, 2009, YouTube (URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v=H_GIwMdkWT8).

Sweetmarias, undated, posted 13 August 2010, YouTube (URL: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSFoybapqe0).

Information Contacts: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Jakarta Globe (URL: http://www.thejakartaglobe.com).

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 4 confirmed Holocene eruptive periods.

2002 Nov 11 - 2002 Dec 19 ± 3 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Kawah Baru, Kawah Nangklak
2002 Nov 11 - 2002 Dec 19 ± 3 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 13 Events for Episode 1 at Kawah Baru, Kawah Nangklak

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Directed Explosion weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
   - - - -    - - - - Lahar or Mudflow
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
   - - - -    - - - - Evacuations
2002 Nov 11    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
2002 Nov 15    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1942 Aug 15 - 1942 Aug 16 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1 (?)

Episode 1 | Eruption
1942 Aug 15 - 1942 Aug 16 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity Uncertain
1942 Aug 15    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1923 Mar 11 - 1925 Mar 9 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Kawah Baru, Kawah Nangklak
1923 Mar 11 - 1925 Mar 9 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 6 Events for Episode 1 at Kawah Baru, Kawah Nangklak

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Blocks
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1923 Mar 11    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1924 Dec 18    - - - - Fatalities

1772 Aug 12 - 1772 Aug 12 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 3

Episode 1 | Eruption
1772 Aug 12 - 1772 Aug 12 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 8 Events for Episode 1

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion Uncertain
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Avalanche
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Edifice Destroyed Collapse/avalanche
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1772 Aug 12    - - - - Fatalities
1772 Aug 12    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
Deformation History

There is no Deformation History data available for Papandayan.

Emission History

There is data available for 1 emission periods. Expand each entry for additional details.


Emissions during 2002 Nov 13 - 2002 Nov 13 [7 kt SO2 at 13 km altitude]

Start Date: 2002 Nov 13 Stop Date: 2002 Nov 13 Method: Satellite (Earth Probe TOMS)
SO2 Altitude Min: 13 km SO2 Altitude Max: 13 km Total SO2 Mass: 7 kt

Data Details

Date Start Date End Assumed SO2 Altitude SO2 Algorithm SO2 Mass
20021113 12.7 7.000
Photo Gallery

Volcanologist Maurice Krafft, wearing heat-resistant headgear, measures the temperature of a sulfur-encrusted fumarole in the Kawah Mas ("Golden Crater") thermal area on Papandayan volcano.

Copyrighted photo by Katia and Maurice Krafft, 1971.
A scientist from the Volcanological Survey of Indonesia examines a debris avalanche deposit at Papandayan volcano that predates the historic 1772 debris avalanche. The deposit contains large angular clasts in a hydrothermally altered matrix and the large log to the left.

Photo by Tom Casadevall, 1986 (U.S. Geological Survey).
The hydrothermally altered rocks of Welirang Ridge in the background is the NE scarp resulting from the partial flank collapse of Papandayan volcano in 1772. The extensive alteration of rocks within the volcano contributed to the collapse that produced a debris avalanche that traveled 11 km from the volcano, destroying 40 villages.

Photo by Tom Casadevall, 1986 (U.S. Geological Survey).
A plume rises above the Kawah Mas thermal area in the crater of Papandayan volcano. This view from the NW shows Gunung Warirang at the left and the eastern wall of the Papandayan crater in the background. The 1772 debris avalanche traveled to the NE down the valley at the left.

Photo by Tom Casadevall, 1986 (U.S. Geological Survey).
The steep, hydrothermally altered scarp on the left is the headwall of the 1772 collapse of Papandayan, which produced a debris avalanche that traveled at high velocities up to 11 km from the volcano, destroying 40 villages and causing nearly 3,000 fatalities.

Photo by Tom Casadevall, 1986 (U.S. Geological Survey).
The flat area to the left is Alun-Alun, the uppermost of four large craters on Papandayan volcano. The v-shaped valley in the center of the photo extending to the NE is the breach left by collapse of Papandayan volcano in 1772. The volcano in the distance on the left horizon is Gunung Guntur, another historically active volcano bordering the Garut Plain.

Photo by Tom Casadevall, 1986 (U.S. Geological Survey).
The collapse of the summit of Papandayan volcano on 8 August 1772 produced a debris avalanche that swept over lowland areas to the east, destroying 40 villages and killing 2,957 people. The farmlands in the foreground of this photo are underlain by the deposits from this avalanche, which traveled 11 km from the volcano. The collapse event was accompanied by a 5-minute-long explosive eruption.

Photo by Tom Casadevall, 1986 (U.S. Geological Survey).
Papandayan volcano has four large summit craters. The light-colored area in this view from the east is Kawah Mas ("Golden Crater"), an active hydrothermal area that was the site of two small phreatic eruptions in the first half of the twentieth century. In 1772 the volcano underwent flank collapsed that produced a debris avalanche that swept over lowland areas to the east, destroying 40 villages.

Photo by Ruska Hadian, 1982 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
The active Kawah Mas crater contains numerous high-temperature fumarolic vents, many surrounded by deposits of sulfur. The fumarole temperatures are monitored by scientists from the Volcanological Survey of Indonesia. Phreatic explosions have occurred during historical time from vents near Kawah Mas.

Photo by Lee Siebert, 1995 (Smithsonian Institution).
Volcanic gas emissions from a sulfur-encrusted fumarole at Kawah Mas ("Golden Crater") at Papandayan. The crater contains a large number of high-temperature fumaroles with temperatures of several hundred degrees Celsius.

Photo by Lee Siebert, 1995 (Smithsonian Institution).
The debris-avalanche deposit produced by the 1772 collapse of Papandayan volcano contains abundant angular clasts including the sulfur-rich clast beneath the rock hammer, in a hydrothermally altered, clay-rich matrix. Extensive thermal alteration of rocks within the volcano had occurred prior to the collapse.

Photo by Lee Siebert, 1995 (Smithsonian Institution).
An aerial view from the south shows the complex summit of Papandayan volcano. The lighter-colored, flat area at the left is Alun-Alun, the uppermost of four summit craters. A gas plume rises from a hydrothermal area within the area remaining after the collapse of the summit in 1772. The forested peak at the right is the eastern summit. The two peaks at the upper left are Gunung Puntang and Gunung Jaja.

Photo published in Taverne, 1926 "Vulkaanstudien op Java," (courtesy of Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
GVP Map Holdings

Maps are not currently available due to technical issues.

The maps shown below have been scanned from the GVP map archives and include the volcano on this page. Clicking on the small images will load the full 300 dpi map. Very small-scale maps (such as world maps) are not included.

Smithsonian Sample Collections Database

The following 1 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 101602 Unidentified -- --
External Sites