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Lokon-Empung

Photo of this volcano
  • Country
  • Volcanic Region
  • Landform | Volc Type
  • Last Known Eruption
  • 1.358°N
  • 124.792°E

  • 1,580 m
    5,184 ft

  • 266100
  • Latitude
  • Longitude

  • Summit
    Elevation

  • Volcano
    Number

Most Recent Weekly Report: 6 September-12 September 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that activity at Lokon Empung had decreased during the previous few weeks. Seismicity notably decreased during 21-22 July; volcanic earthquakes started to become less frequent and tremor amplitude significantly decreased. Gas-and-steam emissions had variable densities but decreased from a maximum height of 400 m above the crater during 18-31 July to a maximum height of 200 m above the crater during 1-20 August. At 1200 on 21 August the Alert Level was lowered to 2 (on a sale of 1-4) and the public was reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


Most Recent Bulletin Report: December 2015 (BGVN 40:12) Citation IconCite this Report

Small eruptions and seismic unrest continue in 2014-2015

Frequent activity at Lokon-Empung since early 2011 has typically included small explosions amid seismic unrest. Eruptions from the active Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the peaks of Lokon and Empung, took place during September 2012-September 2013, May 2015, and August-September 2015. The volcano is monitored by the Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG). The Alert Level has been set at 3 (on a 4 level system) since July 2011, and residents and tourists have been warned not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

Activity during 2011-2014. A brief explosion on 11 February 2011 was followed by an eruptive period lasting a year, from 26 June 2011 through 1 May 2012. Activity resumed again on 15 September 2012, and was continuing as of mid-April 2013 (BGVN 38:03). Although there were no further reports of explosive activity until September, thermal anomalies were observed on 5 July 2013 (2 pixels) at or near Tompaluan Crater, based on MODIS satellite data analyzed using MODVOLC.

An ash plume rising to an altitude of 1.8 km and drifting N on 9 September 2013 was reported by the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) based on ground reports from PVMBG. Ash was not detected in satellite images due to meteorological clouds. According to a news article (Jakarta Post), an explosion at 0630 generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km; the explosion was heard 10 km away. Darwin VAAC noted that during the next day, ash plumes rose to an altitude of 2.4 km, although ash was again not identified in satellite images. A spokesperson from the PVMBG told the Jakarta Post that activity declined after 9 September, including the frequency of deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes.

A year later, PVMBG reported that during 8-14 September 2014 observers saw white plumes rising 25-100 m above Tompaluan Crater. On 13 September three explosions from the crater, at 0300, 1146, and 1229, produced thick white plumes that rose at most 500 m above the crater. Seismicity decreased sharply after the 13 September events, but continued to remain high relative to the levels detected previously.

Activity during 2015. According to PVMBG, observers saw white plumes rising 25-50 m above Tompaluan Crater during 6-13 May 2015, although bad weather often prevented observations. Seismicity fluctuated but slightly decreased overall.

An eruption on 20 May 2015 from the crater generated an ash plume that, according to the Darwin VAAC, rose as high as 3 km and drifted NNW (figure 17). The eruption was accompanied by loud "thumping" noises heard at the local observation post. During 21-27 May, thick grayish-white plumes rose as high as 150 m. Bad weather prevented satellite views. Seismicity fluctuated but generally continued to decrease slightly.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 17. Photo of Lokon-Empung erupting on 20 May 2015. The Lokon cone is hidden by the ash plume from Tompaluan Crater; Gunung Empung is to the right. View is approximately NNW from Tomohon City. Courtesy of Piet Hein Pusung.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 18. Photo of Lokon-Empung erupting on 20 May 2015. The ash plume from Tompaluan Crater is rising above Gunung Lokon (left). View is approximately NNW from Tomohon City. Courtesy of Piet Hein Pusung.

PVMBG reported that during 10-17 June 2015, observers at the Lokon Observation Post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 450 m above the crater. The number of volcanic earthquakes fluctuated and signals indicating emissions were detected almost daily. During 15-22 July observers saw white plumes rising as high as 75 m above the crater. The number of volcanic earthquakes declined but still remained higher than levels recorded during 25 May-10 July. Signals indicating emissions were occasionally detected.

According to the Darwin VAAC, PVMBG reported that on 30 August an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3 km. Ash was not identified in satellite images. According to a news account (Jakarta Post), ashfall occurred in Manado (15 km N) to North Minahasa (43 km NE). Another news account (Regional kompas.com) reported that thick volcanic ash covered the runways at Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado, delaying some flights.

Thermal anomalies at or near Tompaluan Crater, based on MODIS satellite instruments analyzed using the MODVOLC algorithm, were observed on 24 September 2015 (1 pixel). The MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) system detected six hotspots within 5 km of Lokon-Empung during September 2015, two early in the month and four near the end.

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views, PVMBG reported that during 28 October-24 November 2015 observers saw white plumes rising as high as 400 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, but the seismic spectral amplitude measurement (SSAM) showed a gradually increasing trend.

Information Contacts: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 5+7, 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/); Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); MIROVA, a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence, Italy (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); The Jakarta Post (URL: http://www.thejakartapost.com/); Jakarta Globe (URL: http://jakartaglobe.id/); Regional Kompas.com (URL: http://regional.kompas.com/); Piet Hein Pusung (URL: https://twitter.com/PietHeinPusung).

Weekly Reports - Index


2023: June | July | September
2020: April
2017: March
2016: January | February | March | September
2015: May | June | July | August | November | December
2014: September
2013: January | March | April | September
2012: February | April | September | October | November | December
2011: February | June | July | August | October | December
2008: February
2007: June | December
2003: February | March | April | September
2002: February | April | May | June
2001: January | February | March | May | August | November


6 September-12 September 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that activity at Lokon Empung had decreased during the previous few weeks. Seismicity notably decreased during 21-22 July; volcanic earthquakes started to become less frequent and tremor amplitude significantly decreased. Gas-and-steam emissions had variable densities but decreased from a maximum height of 400 m above the crater during 18-31 July to a maximum height of 200 m above the crater during 1-20 August. At 1200 on 21 August the Alert Level was lowered to 2 (on a sale of 1-4) and the public was reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


26 July-1 August 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported continuing daily gas-and-steam emissions at Lokon-Empung during 26 July through 1 August. White plumes with variable densities rose 25-200 m above the crater rim and drifted N, NW, and W. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


19 July-25 July 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported continuing daily steam-and-gas emissions at Lokon-Empung during 19-25 July. White plumes with variable densities rose as high as 250 m above the crater rim and drifted W and N. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


12 July-18 July 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported continuing daily steam-and-gas emissions at Lokon-Empung during 12-18 July. White plumes with variable densities rose as high as 400 m above the crater rim and drifted S and N. The Alert Level was raised to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) at 1800 on 17 July and the public was reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


28 June-4 July 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported continuing daily emissions at Lokon-Empung during 28 June-4 July. White plumes with variable densities rose as high as 250 m above the crater rim and drifted S and W on most days. On 2 July white-and-gray plumes rose 100-300 m and drifted N and S. The volcano Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


21 June-27 June 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported continuing daily emissions at Lokon-Empung during 21-27 June. The plumes had variable densities, rose as high as 300 m above the crater rim, and were white on most days; plumes were described as white and gray on 21 June. The volcano Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


14 June-20 June 2023 Citation IconCite this Report

In a press release PVMBG reported increased emissions at Lokon-Empung on 13 June with dense white plumes rising 400 m above the rim of Tompaluan Crater and drifting S; a total of 12 earthquakes indicating emissions were recorded by the seismic network. The emissions were followed by a period of continuous tremor during 1835-2100. White steam-and-gas emissions of variable densities rose as high as 500 m and drifted N, W, and S during 14-20 June. During 2023 white emissions generally rose 20-150 m above the crater rim and seismicity was generally dominated by 1-2 daily shallow volcanic earthquakes. The volcano Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4) and the public was reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


15 April-21 April 2020 Citation IconCite this Report

An increased number of volcanic earthquakes over a few days prompted PVMBG to issue a VONA on 15 April and raise the Aviation Color Code for Lokon-Empung to Yellow (the second lowest on a four-color scale). The volcano Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


29 March-4 April 2017 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that on 25 March six climbers between the ages of 15 and 20 climbed to Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, into the restricted area, where one of the climbers fell into the crater and died. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


14 September-20 September 2016 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 1-14 September observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater) saw white plumes rising as high as 250 m above the crater. The number of shallow volcanic earthquakes was the highest on 1 September (20 recorded), and then fluctuated between 1 and 4 per day during 2-14 September. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


2 March-8 March 2016 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 5 February-8 March observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater) saw white plumes rising as high as 200 m above the crater. Seismicity increased; shallow volcanic earthquakes notably increased on 6 March. Deformation data indicated inflation. The Alert Level was raised to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) on 8 March due to significant increases in deformation and seismic data. Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


3 February-9 February 2016 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 1 December 2015-4 February 2016 observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater) saw white plumes rising as high as 400 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated but decreased overall. No deformation was detected. The Alert Level was lowered to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) on 5 February. Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 1.5 km.

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


13 January-19 January 2016 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 6-13 January observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater) saw white plumes rising as high as 150 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, and was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes and signals indicating emissions. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


6 January-12 January 2016 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 30 December-7 January observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 250 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, and was dominated by shallow volcanic earthquakes and signals indicating emissions; the number of shallow volcanic earthquakes significantly increased on 3 January. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


16 December-22 December 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 10-16 December observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 150 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, but the seismic spectral amplitude measurement (SSAM) showed a gradual and significant increasing trend over the previous 3-4 months. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


9 December-15 December 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 3-10 December observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 400 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, but the seismic spectral amplitude measurement (SSAM) had shown a gradually increasing trend over the previous 3-4 months. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


2 December-8 December 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 26 November-3 December observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 350 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, but the seismic spectral amplitude measurement (SSAM) showed a gradually increasing trend. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


18 November-24 November 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 12-19 November observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 400 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, but the seismic spectral amplitude measurement (SSAM) showed a gradually increasing trend. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


11 November-17 November 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 5-12 November observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 300 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, but the seismic spectral amplitude measurement (SSAM) showed a gradually increasing trend. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


4 November-10 November 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, PVMBG reported that during 28 October-5 November observers at the post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (North Sulawesi, 4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 125 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, but the seismic spectral amplitude measurement (SSAM) showed an increasing trend. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


26 August-1 September 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

According to the Darwin VAAC, PVMBG reported that on 30 August an ash plume rose from Lokon-Empung to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. Ash was not identified in satellite images.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


22 July-28 July 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 15-22 July observers at the Lokon Observation Post in Kakaskasen Tomohon, North Sulawesi (4 km from the crater) reported that, although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, white plumes were observed rising as high as 75 m above the crater. The number of volcanic earthquakes declined but still remained higher than levels recorded during 25 May-10 July. Signals indicating emissions were occasionally detected. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


17 June-23 June 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 10-17 June observers at the Lokon Observation Post in Kakaskasen Tomohon, North Sulawesi (4 km from the crater) reported that although inclement weather sometimes obscured views of Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater, white plumes were observed rising as high as 450 m above the crater. The number of volcanic earthquakes fluctuated and signals indicating emissions were detected almost daily. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


27 May-2 June 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that an eruption at 1520 on 20 May from Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan Crater generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km and drifted NNW. The eruption was accompanied by loud "thumping" noises heard at the local observation post. During 21-27 May white plumes rose as high as 150 m. Seismicity fluctuated but slightly decreased overall. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

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


13 May-19 May 2015 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 6-13 May observers of Lokon-Empung noted white plumes rising 25-50 m above Tompaluan Crater, although inclement weather often prevented observations. Seismicity fluctuated but slightly decreased overall. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were reminded not to approach Tompaluan Crater within a radius of 2.5 km. Based on ground observations, the Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. on 20 May. Inclement weather prevented satellite views of the volcano.

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


17 September-23 September 2014 Citation IconCite this Report

PVMBG reported that during 8-14 September observers of Lokon-Empung noted white plumes rising 25-100 m above Tompaluan Crater. On 13 September three explosions from Tompaluan Crater, at 0300, 1146, and 1229, produced white plumes that rose at most 500 m above the crater. Seismicity decreased sharply after the13 September events but continued to remain high relative to the levels detected prior to 10 September. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


18 September-24 September 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article, a spokesperson from the Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) stated that activity at Lokon-Empung continued to decline after a 9 September eruption. The frequency of deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes had continued to decline.

Source: The Jakarta Post


4 September-10 September 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on ground reports from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 9 September an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 1.8 km (6,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted N. Ash was not detected in satellite images due to meteorological clouds. According to a news article an explosion at 0630 generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km; the explosion was heard 10 km away. The VAAC noted that the next day ash plumes rose to an altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. although ash was again not identified in satellite images.

Sources: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC); Jakarta Globe


10 April-16 April 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on both web-camera views and ground reports, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 11 April an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 4.6 km (15,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW. Ash was not detected in satellite imagery.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


3 April-9 April 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on both CVGHM and ground reports, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 3 April an eruption from Lokon-Empung produced an ash plume that rose to altitudes of 3-3.4 km (10,000-11,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted S and SE. On 8 April an ash plume rose to an altitude of 4.6 km (15,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted SW. Ash was not detected in satellite imagery.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


20 March-26 March 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article, an eruption from Lokon-Empung occurred on 20 March at 0757, producing an ash plume that rose 2 km above the crater.

Source: newKerala.com


30 January-5 February 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

According to news articles, Lokon-Empung erupted twice on 31 January, producing an ash plume that rose 800 m after the first eruption. Seismicity had increased the day before. In another article the head of the Lokon observation post reported that eruptions from Lokon occurred daily, and specifically that nine eruptions had occurred on 2 February.

Based on a ground report from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 4 km (13,000 ft) a.s.l. on 3 February. Ash was not detected in satellite imagery.

Sources: People's Daily Online (China); Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC); Kompas.com


16 January-22 January 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on reports from CVGHM and ASHTAMs (a special NOTAM for volcanic ash), the Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes rose from Lokon-Empung rose to altitudes of 3.7-4.5 km (12,000-14,800 ft) a.s.l. during 15-16 January. Ash was not detected in satellite imagery.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


2 January-8 January 2013 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on ground reports from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes rose from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 2.4 km (8,000 ft) a.s.l. Ash was not detected in satellite imagery.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


12 December-18 December 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on ground reports from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes rose from Lokon-Empung on 17 December.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


5 December-11 December 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on information from CVGHM and the WAAA MWO (in Ujung Pandang,Indonesia), the Darwin VAAC reported that an eruption from Lokon-Empung produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 3.4 km (11,000 ft) a.s.l. on 6 December and drifted S. Ash was not detected in satellite imagery. On 10 December a plume rose to an altitude of 4.3 km (14,000 ft) a.s.l.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


28 November-4 December 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to the Darwin VAAC, CVGHM reported that an eruption from Lokon-Empung produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 4.9 km (16,000 ft) a.s.l. on 28 November. Ash was not detected in satellite imagery.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


7 November-13 November 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on a SIGMET, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 11 November an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


3 October-9 October 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to the Darwin VAAC, CVGHM reported that on 6 October an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l.; the plume altitude was determined by wind data. A thermal anomaly was detected in satellite imagery. According to a news article, an eruption at 1405 on 7 October ejected incandescent tephra as high as 350 m above the crater and generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km. The article also noted that Lokon-Empung had erupted 41 times in September and three times on 5 October.

Sources: Jakarta Globe; Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


19 September-25 September 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to the Darwin VAAC, ground-based observers reported that on 21 September an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. Ash was not identified in satellite imagery.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


12 September-18 September 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to the Darwin VAAC, ground-based observers reported that on 15 September an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 3 km (10,000 ft) a.s.l. On 15 September satellite imagery showed an ash plume drifting 185 km SE.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


25 April-1 May 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to the Darwin VAAC, ash plumes from Lokon-Empung, that rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted 75 km N, were detected in satellite imagery and reported by ground-based observers.

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


18 April-24 April 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that during the morning on 24 April diffuse white plumes rose 25-50 m above Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks. Later that day an eruption was accompanied by loud "thumping" noises heard at local observation posts, though fog prevented views of the crater. The next day diffuse white plumes rose 50-100 m above the crater. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


8 February-14 February 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

According to news articles, an explosion from the Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, produced an ash plume that rose as high as 2 km above the crater on 10 February; loud "thumping" noises were also heard. Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 3-3.4 km (10,000-11,000 ft) a.s.l. during 10-12 February, though clouds prevented the detection of ash in satellite imagery.

Sources: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC); Antara News; CNN


28 December-3 January 2012 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that on 27 December seismic activity at Lokon-Empung suggested that an eruption had occurred, but fog prevented visual observations of the crater area. CVGHM noted on 28 December that the Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and reminded residents and tourists to not approach within a 2.5 km radius of the crater. Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 29 December an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l.

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


21 December-27 December 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article, three explosions from the Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks were recorded by the CVGHM on 27 December. CVGHM recorded 23 deep volcanic tremors and 40 shallow volcanic tremors. Residents and tourists were not permitted within a 2.5 km radius of the crater. Based on visual and seismic observations during 27-28 December, the Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). The Darwin VAAC reported a low-level eruption on 27 December based on media reports.

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


26 October-1 November 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article, a gray plume rose 1.2 km above Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, and drifted SW on 26 October, followed by an explosion that sent incandescent material as far as 800 m away from Tompaluan crater. A second eruption produced a plume that rose 500 m above the crater.

Source: Kompas.com


5 October-11 October 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that on 10 October white and gray plumes rose 100-300 m above Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks. Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 11 October an ash plume rose to an altitude of 2.1 km (7,000 ft) a.s.l. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


24 August-30 August 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a news article, activity from Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, decreased on 29 August after erupting several times the previous week and specifically 12 times on 28 August. One explosion on 29 August ejected material 250 m above the crater. The article also noted that 222 people remained at temporary refugee camps because their homes were located within 3 kilometers of the crater.

Source: BNO News


3 August-9 August 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that during 24 July-8 August seismicity decreased at Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, with a drastic reduction on 26 July. During 27 July-8 August white plumes rose 100-400 m above the crater. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were not permitted within a 3-km radius of the crater.

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


20 July-26 July 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that during 20-21 July seismicity and visual observations of Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, indicated that activity continued to be high. On 20 July plumes rose 100-500 m above the crater, and during 21-24 July white plumes rose 100-300 m above the crater. CVGHM noted that, since the eruption on 18 July, most data showed a decline in activity and therefore on 24 July the Alert Level was lowered to 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were not permitted within a 3-km radius of the crater. A news article stated that on that same day about 5,000 residents that had evacuated returned home, and about 200 people remained in shelters.

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


13 July-19 July 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

According to news articles, three eruptions during 14-15 July from Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, ejected lava and ash, and caused forest fires on the W flank. A local mayor noted that 6,000 people were in shelters and one person had died from a heart attack while evacuating. Other articles stated that 5,200 people had evacuated. Explosions during 17-18 July produced ash plumes that rose 0.6-3.5 km above the crater.

Sources: Daily Mail; Agence France-Presse (AFP)


6 July-12 July 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that during 28 June-9 July white plumes rose 50-400 m above Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, and gray ash plumes rose 100-500 m above the crater. An ash eruption on 10 July produced white-to-gray plumes that rose 200-400 m above the crater. Fluctuations in the sulfur dioxide gas emission rate were noted during 30 June-10 July. Based on gas flux, seismicity, visual observations, and hazard assessment CVGHM raised the Alert Level to 4 (on a scale of 1-4). On 11 July, the Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes detected in satellite imagery rose to an altitude of 1.5 km (5,000 ft) a.s.l. and drifted NW. According to news articles, close to 1,000 residents were evacuated from the area during 11-12 July.

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


29 June-5 July 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that during 1-25 June white plumes rose 50-200 m above Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks. On 26 June a phreatic eruption ejected material that fell around the crater and produced a gray plume that rose 400 m above the crater rim and drifted N. Seismicity increased the next day and white plumes rose 50-200 m above the crater. The Alert Level was raised to 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Visitors and residents were prohibited from going within a 3-km radius of the crater.

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


23 February-1 March 2011 Citation IconCite this Report

According to news articles, a phreatic eruption from Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, produced an ash plume that rose 400 m above the crater rim and drifted SE on 22 February.

Source: Tempo


27 February-4 March 2008 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM reported that on 28 February the Alert level for Lokon-Empung was lowered from 3 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) due to a decrease in seismicity during 3-26 February, analysis of visual observations, and a lack of deformation. During 14-26 February, white plumes rose to an altitude of 1.7 km (5,600 ft) a.s.l. Visitors and tourists were prohibited from going within a 1-km radius of the crater.

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


5 December-11 December 2007 Citation IconCite this Report

CVGHM raised the Alert Level for Lokon-Empung from 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) on 9 December based on visual observations, inflation detected by deformation instruments, and an increase in seismicity. The water in the Tompaluan crater changed color from green to gray and noises from degassing became stronger. White plumes rose from the crater to an altitude of 1.6 km (5,200 ft) a.s.l. Visitors and tourists were advised not to go within a 2-km radius of the crater.

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


20 June-26 June 2007 Citation IconCite this Report

Based on visual observations, CVGHM reported that during 18-25 June diffuse ash plumes from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 1.6 km (5,200 ft) a.s.l. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4). [Correction: diffuse white plumes from Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan crater rose to an altitude of approximately 1.2 km (3,900 ft) a.s.l.]

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


10 September-16 September 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

According to a report from aircraft personnel, on 12 September at 1510 an ash plume emitted from Lokon-Empung rose to a height of ~7.6 km a.s.l. and drifted W. The plume was not visible on satellite imagery.

Source: Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC)


9 April-15 April 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

After an explosion on 1 April at Lokon-Empung, volcanic activity decreased through 6 April. A "white-thick ash plume" rose to low levels and there were no observations of ash explosions. Seismicity after the 1 April explosion was dominated by tremor due to the release of gases. Lokon-Empung remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


2 April-8 April 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

Beginning on 31 March the number of volcanic earthquakes at Lokon-Empung was relatively high. On 1 April at 2242 an explosion produced an ash column to a height of ~1.5 km over the crater. Ash drifted SSE and accumulated as an up to 1-mm-thick layer in the town of Tomohon. Incandescent material was hurled to ~350 m high and cascaded around the crater. Through 0900 on 3 April tremor earthquakes continued to be recorded. Lokon-Empung remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


26 March-1 April 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

VSI decreased the Alert Level at Lokon-Empung on 24 March from 3 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) due to a decrease in volcanic activity. During 17-23 March, "white-thick ash emissions" rose to ~300 m above Tompaluan crater, ash explosions occurred, and there was a significant decrease in emission earthquakes compared to the previous week. On 27 March at 0156 an explosion ejected ash to 1.5 km and incandescent volcanic material to 400 m above the crater. An ash cloud drifted S and ash fell around the summit. Ash was not visible on satellite imagery. Lokon-Empung remained at Alert Level 2.

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


19 March-25 March 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

During 10-16 March, volcanism remained at relatively high levels at Lokon-Empung with "white-thick ash emissions" rising to low levels above Tompaluan crater. No explosions occurred during 14-16 March. Seismicity was dominated by emission and tremor earthquakes. The Alert Level at Lokon-Empung remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


5 March-11 March 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

Explosive activity continued at Lokon-Empung during 24 February to 2 March, with 12 explosions producing "white-gray ash columns" that rose 300 m above the volcano. An explosion on 2 March at 2129 was preceded by 204 shallow and 77 deep volcanic earthquakes. During the explosion a "gray-dark ash column" rose 1.5 km above the crater, but incandescent volcanic material remained within the crater. Ash drifted about 14.5 km from the crater to the Tondano area, depositing ~1 mm of ash. Tremor was recorded after the eruption. Lokon-Empung remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


19 February-25 February 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

An eruption at Lokon-Empung on 23 February around 1100 produced an ash cloud that rose 2.5 km above the crater. According to news reports, ash fell in the villages of Kinilouw and Kakaskasen and the Tondano Lake. On the 24th authorities put residents near the volcano on alert and banned recreational activities on Lokon-Empung's flanks. Two small eruptions on the 24th sent ash 200 m above the volcano. Lokon-Empung was at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

Sources: Agence France-Presse (AFP); Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC); News 24


12 February-18 February 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

On 10 February at 2219 an ash explosion occurred at Lokon-Empung, but the height of the resultant ash cloud could not be determined due to heavy rain. On 12 February, mainly during 0100-1000, there was a significant increase in volcanic earthquakes. At 1048 an explosion occurred, followed by seismic data indicating a larger explosion at 1102. On 12 February during 0800-1100 the Alert Level was raised from 3 to 4 (the highest level). Tremor was continuously recorded during 1255 on the 12th to 0046 the following day. According to the Darwin VAAC, an explosion occurred on 19 February at 0403 that produced a plume to 500 m above the summit.

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


5 February-11 February 2003 Citation IconCite this Report

Starting at the beginning of the report week (3-9 February), there was an increase in seismicity and surface activity at Lokon-Empung in comparison to the previous week. There were more emission, and deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes and ash emissions. On 8 February at 0443 an ash explosion was accompanied by the ejection of incandescent volcanic material. A thick ash cloud rose to 1.4 km over the crater and 0.5-1 mm of ash was deposited S of the volcano in the villages of Kayau, Tara-tara I and II, and Woloan II and III. At this time the Alert Level was raised from 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


12 June-18 June 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

Seismic and volcanic activity at Lokon-Empung were above "normal" levels during 3-9 June, but there was a decline in seismicity in comparison to the previous week. The Alert Level at Lokon-Empung was reduced from 3 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


5 June-11 June 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

Seismic and volcanic activity continued at high levels at Lokon-Empung during 27 May-2 June. Volcanic tremor occurred and thin emissions rose to low-levels above the crater. The volcano remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


29 May-4 June 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

Seismicity at Lokon-Empung during 22 April-26 May remained above background levels. Several deep and shallow volcanic, tectonic, and small explosion earthquakes occurred. Thin, white plumes rose 50-250 m above the crater rim. Lokon-Empung remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


24 April-30 April 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

Activity at Lokon remained higher than normal during 15-21 April. Volcanic tremor was high, gas explosions occurred at the bottom of the crater, and a low-level steam plume was visible. The volcano remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


17 April-23 April 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

Increases in volcanic and seismic activity at Lokon-Empung led VSI to raise the Alert Level from 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) on 12 April. Eruptions occurred on 10 April at 2302 and on the 12th at 1816. On 13 April eight gas-and-ash explosions occurred and on the 14th five occurred. Tremor that began on 11 April continued through at least the 14th.

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


10 April-16 April 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

VSI reported that an eruption occurred at Lokon-Empung's Tompaluan crater on 10 April at 1104. The dark plume rose about 1 km above the volcano and tephra fell around the crater. Based on a pilot report, the Darwin VAAC first erroneously attributed the ash cloud to an eruption from Mahawu. No ash was visible on satellite imagery.

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


13 February-19 February 2002 Citation IconCite this Report

After an eruption on 9 February, volcanism decreased at Lokon-Empung through at least the 17th. During 11-17 February, observers saw small volcanic plumes rise 50-150 m above the crater rim. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


14 November-20 November 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

Following a tectonic earthquake near Lokon on 19 October, activity increased at the volcano; high-frequency tremor occurred and gray emissions rose 50-250 m above Tompaluan crater. While fewer earthquakes were recorded during 12-18 November (10 per day) in comparison to the previous week (19 per day), the number of earthquakes was still above normal levels. No major changes in volcanic activity were seen at Lokon's summit. The Alert Level at Lokon remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


29 August-4 September 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

On 18 August at 2230 an explosion produced an ash cloud that rose ~800 m above the crater and drifted over the town of Manado 25 km N of the volcano. Following the explosion there was a significant increase in volcanic earthquakes in comparison to the previous week. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


22 August-28 August 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

VSI reported that there was a significant decrease in seismic activity at Lokon during 30 July-12 August in comparison to during previous weeks. Small explosions at Tompaluan crater produced plumes that rose 25-250 m above the summit. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


16 May-22 May 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

An article in the Jakarta Post stated that an eruption at Lokon that began at 2014 on 20 May deposited ash in a wide area around the volcano, including the provincial capital of Manado, approximately 20 km NE of the volcano. They reported that ash rose up to 900 m above the volcano and that the eruption was accompanied by tremor.

Source: The Jakarta Post


21 March-27 March 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

Activity continued after the 28 January 2001 explosion. On 26 March 2001 at 1440 another eruption sent a dark ash plume 1,500 m above the crater rim. Ash drifted E and N. No incandescent material was observed, but 25 minutes after the explosion ash started to fall at Kinilow village (3.5 km from the crater) and Kakaskasen village (4 km from the crater). Activity slowly decreased though 1510, when thick white gas emissions from the crater rose 400 m. The ashfall was 0.3-0.5 cm thick at Kinilow village, 0.1-0.3 cm thick at Kakaskasen village, and 1-2 cm thick around Pasahapen river, about 1 km from the crater. After the initial explosion, volcanic tremor was recorded between 1442 and 1457 with a maximum amplitude of 2-16 mm. The seismograph recorded 13 deep volcanic (type A) and 12 shallow volcanic (type B) events on 25 March; six deep and seven shallow volcanic earthquakes were detected on the 26th.

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


7 March-13 March 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

The VSI reported that visual observations made during 27 February to 5 March revealed that activity decreased at Lokon-Empung. Only small-to-medium sized steam plumes were observed rising 50-150 m above the crater. The Alert level was reduced from 3 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


28 February-6 March 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

The VSI reported that following the 28 January eruption, activity decreased at Lokon-Empung with only small steam emissions occurring. A small tectonic earthquake (M 1) was reported in the area. The volcano remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


21 February-27 February 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

Visual observations by VSI personnel during 12-17 February revealed that volcanic activity remained low at Lokon, with steam plumes rising 200-350 m above the crater rim. Seismic data were not available because the seismograph on the volcano was broken. The volcano remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


7 February-13 February 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

After explosions occurred on 28 January, volcanic activity decreased. During 30 January to 5 February an ash plume was observed rising 200-350 m above the volcano. The seismograph on the volcano broke on 30 January. The volcano remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


31 January-6 February 2001 Citation IconCite this Report

The VSI reported that volcanic activity increased in comparison to the previous week. Explosions began occurring at 1920 on 28 January and produced glowing ejecta (volcanic bombs) that fell on the N slope of the volcano. The height of the ash cloud that was produced by the eruption could not be measured due to unfavorable weather conditions. A strong sulfurous smell was detected from Kakaskasen observatory. On the morning of 29 January an ash plume rose continuously up to 300 m above the crater. The Alert Level at the volcano was raised during the report period from level 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

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


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.

01/1970 (CSLP 09-70) Eruption on 27 November 1969 ejects thick, dark cloud; activity continued through late December

03/1986 (SEAN 11:03) Explosions empty crater lake; mud flows

04/1986 (SEAN 11:04) More phreatic explosions

05/1986 (SEAN 11:05) Small explosion is only activity since April

06/1986 (SEAN 11:06) Small explosion

07/1986 (SEAN 11:07) Small explosions eject daily ash clouds

09/1986 (SEAN 11:09) Explosions eject breadcrust bombs

10/1986 (SEAN 11:10) Periodic explosions; no additional juvenile tephra

11/1986 (SEAN 11:11) Frequent explosions; ashfall to the SE

12/1986 (SEAN 11:12) Continued small explosions and seismicity

02/1987 (SEAN 12:02) Occasional small explosions

03/1987 (SEAN 12:03) Single gas explosion

04/1987 (SEAN 12:04) Diminished activity; continuous white plume

06/1987 (SEAN 12:06) Two ash explosions

04/1988 (SEAN 13:04) One small explosion

05/1991 (BGVN 16:05) Increased gas emission, then ash eruption

06/1991 (BGVN 16:06) Explosions eject small ash columns

08/1991 (BGVN 16:08) Incandescent tephra cause fires that burn plantations

10/1991 (BGVN 16:10) Vigorous explosions; 10,000 evacuated

11/1991 (BGVN 16:11) Moderate explosions continue

08/1994 (BGVN 19:08) Description of fumaroles in the active crater

01/1996 (BGVN 21:01) Variable seismicity and minor vapor emissions

11/1996 (BGVN 21:11) Low-level activity and shallow earthquakes

08/1998 (BGVN 23:08) Noteworthy plume and slight increase in seismic activity

05/1999 (BGVN 24:05) March-May included variable seismicity and meager plumes

10/2000 (BGVN 25:10) May-October seismic unrest, modest ash clouds, and lava fountains

01/2001 (BGVN 26:01) 28 January explosion sends ash and glowing ejecta skyward

11/2001 (BGVN 26:11) March, May, and August eruptions; plumes to 1.5 km over summit

02/2002 (BGVN 27:02) Explosions, 1.5-km ash plumes, and tremor through at least February 2002

04/2002 (BGVN 27:04) Ash eruptions and increased seismicity in mid-April, Alert Level raised to 3

07/2002 (BGVN 27:07) Increased activity; gas plumes with occassional ash emitted during June and July 2002

12/2002 (BGVN 27:12) Higher-than-normal activity continues through at least December 2002

05/2003 (BGVN 28:05) Increased explosive activity during January-April 2003; local ashfall

10/2003 (BGVN 28:10) Small gas plume; high but variable shallow volcanic seismicity

12/2003 (BGVN 28:12) During November, elevated seismicity and a minor gas plume

03/2006 (BGVN 31:03) Steaming and seismically active during January-October 2005

02/2008 (BGVN 33:02) June 2007-March 2008, variable seismicity and minor white plumes

06/2011 (BGVN 36:06) July 2011 ash plumes spur 4,000 to 6,000 to evacuate

11/2011 (BGVN 36:11) Ongoing minor ash-bearing eruptions through at least November 2011

05/2012 (BGVN 37:05) Small plumes in 2012; activity increase in April-May

03/2013 (BGVN 38:03) Eruptions continue into early 2013

12/2015 (BGVN 40:12) Small eruptions and seismic unrest continue in 2014-2015




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


January 1970 (CSLP 09-70)

Eruption on 27 November 1969 ejects thick, dark cloud; activity continued through late December

Card 0857 (29 January 1970) Eruption on 27 November 1969 ejects thick, dark cloud; activity continued through late December

Mt. Lokon began an eruptive phase at 0010 local time 27 November 1969, when a sudden explosion sent a thick, dark eruption cloud to a height of 500 m, and incandescent rocks were ejected, subsequently falling back around the crater. Three earthquakes were recorded. On 28 November an explosion at 2157 sent a cloud 400 m high, and pyroclastics were ejected for 15 minutes. Sulfurous smelling mud and sand fell in Kakaskasen, Kinilow, and Tinoor, causing leaves to wither and fish to die in some ponds. Fire was observed at several spots near the crater. By 2300 the activity was limited to bubbling crater water and a white eruption cloud. Between 1 and 9 December there were several explosions, usually accompanied by dark eruption clouds and light ash falls.

Until the middle of December small-scale eruptions often took place at 20-minute intervals, accompanied by light ashfalls around Kakaskasen village. During the last half of December, the eruption became stronger, and violent explosions on 23 and 25 December resulted in mud rains and ashfalls. In addition, 16 moderate eruptions occurred in the last half of the month, pushing ash columns 300 m above the crater.

Information Contacts: Djajadi Hadikusumo, Chief, Volcanology Division, Geology Survey of Indonesia, Bandung, Indonesia.


March 1986 (SEAN 11:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Explosions empty crater lake; mud flows

"Activity began 22 March at 0336 with a small phreatic eruption from the Tompaluan Crater . . . . A small (700,000 m3) crater lake within Tompaluan crater was ~60% evacuated during the 22 March eruption. A larger, phreatomagmatic eruption occurred on 24 March at 0343, emptying the remainder of the lake and throwing out incandescent ballistic blocks to heights of 800-1,000 m. Mudflows were produced during both eruptions. No casualties or damage have been reported. Small explosions occurred on 29 March at 1547 to 250 m height, at 1806 to 300 m, and at 1817 to 200 m. The VSI observation post is located at Kakaskasen, ~5 km SE of the volcano. The observatory has one vertical component seismometer, located at Lokon."

Information Contacts: Suratman, A. Sudradjat and T. Casadevall, VSI.


April 1986 (SEAN 11:04) Citation IconCite this Report

More phreatic explosions

"On 5, 7, 12, and 27 April, small explosions were observed from Tompaluan Crater. The maximum height of the explosion clouds was 500 m."

Information Contacts: Olas, Suratman, Suparto, Kaswanda, and A. Sudradjat, VSI.


May 1986 (SEAN 11:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Small explosion is only activity since April

A small explosion 2 June at 0730 ejected a gray plume to ~700 m above the crater. No other activity had been reported since a phreatic explosion on 27 April.

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


June 1986 (SEAN 11:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Small explosion

On 14 July at 1223, Lokon erupted again from Tompaluan crater . . . . , sending an eruption plume to ~1 km above the crater rim.

Information Contacts: L. Pardyanto, Olas, Kaswanda, A. Sudradjat, and T. Casadevall, VSI.


July 1986 (SEAN 11:07) Citation IconCite this Report

Small explosions eject daily ash clouds

Through July, as many as several small explosions/day continued to send ash clouds to 300-500 m above the crater. The lake within Tompaluan Crater has disappeared completely.

Information Contacts: L. Pardyanto, Olas, Kaswanda, Suratman, A. Sudradjat, and T. Casadevall, VSI.


September 1986 (SEAN 11:09) Citation IconCite this Report

Explosions eject breadcrust bombs

"Explosions continued almost daily through September, ejecting tephra that contained juvenile ballistic fragments (breadcrust bombs) to several hundred meters above the vent on 4, 9, and 11 September."

Information Contacts: L. Pardyanto, Olas, Kaswanda, Suratman, A. Sudradjat, and T. Casadevall, VSI.


October 1986 (SEAN 11:10) Citation IconCite this Report

Periodic explosions; no additional juvenile tephra

Phreatic explosions continued through October. No lava flow has been observed. No juvenile material has been reported since breadcrust bombs were ejected in early September.

Information Contacts: Suratman and T. Casadevall, VSI.


November 1986 (SEAN 11:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Frequent explosions; ashfall to the SE

Approximately 100 explosions occurred at Tompaluan Crater in November, with ~20 recorded 21-27 November, and 33 the previous week. The strongest, on 22 November at 1921, ejected lava fragments and incandescent bombs that fell within 400 m of the crater in the S summit area. An ash column rose 1,000 m and ashfall occurred over a wide area to the SE. Less than 0.5 mm of ash fell at the Kakaskasen Volcano Observatory, ~5.5 km SE of the crater. No casualties or crop damages were reported. The Observatory recorded 37 volcanic earthquakes during November.

Information Contacts: VSI; ANS.


December 1986 (SEAN 11:12) Citation IconCite this Report

Continued small explosions and seismicity

Explosions from Tompaluan Crater continued through early January at rates of 30-80/day. Maximum plume heights were 500-800 m. The Kakaskasen Volcano Observatory recorded 2-20 volcanic earthquakes/day; the average number of events was ~10/day.

Information Contacts: VSI.


February 1987 (SEAN 12:02) Citation IconCite this Report

Occasional small explosions

Occasional small explosions continued through February, ejecting clouds to a maximum height of 400 m. Some seismicity was recorded but was reported as tectonic.

Information Contacts: VSI.


March 1987 (SEAN 12:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Single gas explosion

Lokon-Empung was relatively quiet during March, with only a single gas explosion, on 11 March at 0340, which produced a plume to 900 m height. Normal activity consisted of a white gas plume continuously emitted to a maximum of 300 m above Tompaluan crater.

Information Contacts: VSI; T. Casadevall, USGS & VSI.


April 1987 (SEAN 12:04) Citation IconCite this Report

Diminished activity; continuous white plume

Activity diminished during April. A white plume was continuously emitted from Tompaluan Crater to heights of 200-400 m. During the first half of the month, an average of 15 tectonic earthquakes were detected daily. No seismic activity was reported for the second half of the month.

Information Contacts: VSI; T. Casadevall, USGS & VSI.


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

Two ash explosions

Lokon-Empung generally remained quiet during May and June, with only two ash explosions, on 10 and 13 May. Ash columns rose ~750 m above Tompaluan Crater. Explosions began in March 1986, but have been infrequent for the last few months.

Information Contacts: VSI.


April 1988 (SEAN 13:04) Citation IconCite this Report

One small explosion

A single explosion occurred on 21 April at 0600. The plume reached 400 m above the crater.

Information Contacts: VSI.


May 1991 (BGVN 16:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Increased gas emission, then ash eruption

Gas emissions to 450 m height were observed during the morning and afternoon of 10 May. One week later (17-18 May), ash was erupted to 200-400 m height. Seismicity then decreased, with one deep and three shallow volcanic earthquakes recorded during the last week of May, down from six deep and nine shallow events the second week of the month.

Information Contacts: W. Modjo, VSI.


June 1991 (BGVN 16:06) Citation IconCite this Report

Explosions eject small ash columns

Ash explosions occurred at 1537 on 27 May and 1000 on 28 May, producing columns 250 m high. Continued ash explosions were observed at a rate of 7-16/week, with column heights of 200-400 m. Seismic activity was characterized by explosion earthquakes, averaging 30-50 recorded events/week. Shallow and deep volcanic earthquakes were less frequent (2-8 and 3-9 events/week, respectively). Tectonic earthquakes ranged from 18 to 101 weekly.

Information Contacts: W. Modjo, VSI.


August 1991 (BGVN 16:08) Citation IconCite this Report

Incandescent tephra cause fires that burn plantations

The press reported that renewed activity on 19 September ejected a plume to ~700 m. Incandescent tephra fell 500 m from the crater, starting fires that burned plantations in seven villages. No casualties were reported. As of the next morning, the eruption was continuing and VSI observers were recording accompanying earthquakes. VSI advised local authorities that residents of nearby villages should remain on alert, but an evacuation was not ordered.

Information Contacts: VSI; UPI.


October 1991 (BGVN 16:10) Citation IconCite this Report

Vigorous explosions; 10,000 evacuated

Vigorous explosions on 24 October ejected ash to ~2 km height, and may have generated a pyroclastic flow on 25 October, before a decline in activity noted at 2000. As much as 1 m of tephra was reportedly deposited near the summit, but only 2.5 cm of ash fell 4 km E (at Kinilaw). The airport at Manado (15 km NE; figure 1) was closed until 29 October, because of poor visibility and minor ashfall. By 29 October, more than 1900 buildings and roughly 3 km2 of clove trees and coconut palms had been damaged; ~10,000 people were evacuated. Ash and incandescent material ejected on 6 November reached 300 m height. Large explosions on 17 and 20 November produced ash columns 1,000 and 2,500 m high, respectively, panicking residents of nearby villages, who had recently returned to their homes. Ash emissions continued the next day, but were less frequent and less intense. Vivianne Clavel, a Swiss volcanologist studying the eruption, was reported missing on 24 October, and had not been located by searchparties at press time.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 1. Map of Lokon-Empung, based on a portion of the Manado, Indonesia 1:250,000 sheet (Joint Operations Graphic-Ground, series 1501, sheet NA 51-12, Army Map Service, Washington). Contour interval, 200 m.

[Despite rescue efforts, no signs of V. Clavel were found. According to a witness, she was killed by falling blocks and buried by ash.]

Information Contacts: N. MacLeod, Ridgefield WA, USA; T. Casadevall, USGS; U.S. Embassy, Jakarta; UPI; Reuters; AP.


November 1991 (BGVN 16:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Moderate explosions continue

Since the end of the vigorous activity that began on 24 October, 16 explosions from the active Tompaluan Crater have been recorded (figure 2). Ash column heights ranged from 200 m to >250 m above the rim of Tompaluan . . . . The most recent recorded explosion, on 1 December at 1717, was preceded by tremor that morning and the previous day. The press described an apparently unrecorded ash emission episode that produced a 300-m plume during the morning of 11 December. Gas rose to 200-300 m height between explosions. Local seismicity continued at somewhat reduced rates (figure 3).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 2. Number of recorded explosions/day at Lokon-Empung, 24 October-12 December 1991. Courtesy of VSI.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 3. Number of recorded earthquakes at Lokon-Empung, 28 October-12 December 1991. For each day, three bars are shown, distinguishing shallow volcanic earthquakes (left), deep volcanic shocks (center), and tectonic events (right). Arrows indicate tremor episodes. Courtesy of VSI.

VSI warned that additional explosions were still anticipated, and the area designated by their 1986 hazard map remained at risk. The press reported that [~10,000] people had fled the 24 October activity, but most had returned home by early December.

Information Contacts: VSI; UPI.


August 1994 (BGVN 19:08) Citation IconCite this Report

Description of fumaroles in the active crater

"During our visit to the summit zone on 8 July, intense fumaroles escaped from several parts of the Tompaluan crater floor. This fumarolic activity was mainly concentrated in the N where an intracaldera structure was covered by yellow sulfur deposits. Many other fumaroles with sulfur deposits were also located in the S, E, and W parts of the crater. Temperatures measured with an electronic thermometer at the E fumaroles showed a maximum value of 95-96°C. The fumarolic gases were mainly composed of H2O and H2S."

Information Contacts: H. Gaudru, C. Pittet, M. Auber, C. Bopp, and O. Saudan, EVS, Switzerland.


January 1996 (BGVN 21:01) Citation IconCite this Report

Variable seismicity and minor vapor emissions

Vapor emission was observed during November-December 1995 and whitish-gray plumes rose to 100 m above the active crater. Seismicity during September-October 1995 consisted of 1- 8 A-type events/day. On 1 November there were 46 A-type events recorded, followed by very low seismicity over the next ten days. Activity then increased from 12 November through 31 December, but was highly variable with 4-21 events/day. B-type events remained at 0-8 events/day.

The present activity is located at Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the peaks of Lokon (1,579 m) and Empung (1,340 m). About 10,000 people evacuated following an explosion in October 1991 accompanied by a pyroclastic flow; the eruption ended in January 1992.

Information Contacts: Wimpy S. Tjetjep (Director), Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung, Indonesia.


November 1996 (BGVN 21:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Low-level activity and shallow earthquakes

During October, Tampoluan crater emitted white vapor up to 50-75 m high. Occasionally, strong sulfuric gases were smelled at the observatory an undisclosed distance away. Volcanic earthquakes tended to increase but activity remained at a low level.

Information Contacts: Wimpy S. Tjetjep, Volcanological Survey of Indonesia, Jalan Diponegoro No. 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia.


August 1998 (BGVN 23:08) Citation IconCite this Report

Noteworthy plume and slight increase in seismic activity

A slight increase in shallow volcanic seismic activity was recorded in late June lasting through August, although there was a minor decrease in July. Observers saw a plume of white vapor rising 25-75 m above the summit.

Information Contacts: R. Sukhyar, Director, Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI), Bandung, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


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

March-May included variable seismicity and meager plumes

During 9 March-24 May visual observations suggested stable conditions, with a "white ash plume" rising 25-75 m above the crater rim. But the seismic record showed extreme variation. Between 9 March and 23 March, volcanic A-type events increased from 7 to 53 and volcanic B-type events rose from 15 to 64. Tectonic events decreased from 34 to 17 in that same period. During the week of 23-29 March event numbers dropped to 23 for A-type and 43 for B-type. Tectonic events rose to 35. Weekly event incidence declined in May, hovering under 10 for A-type, under 20 for B-type, and under 25 for tectonic.

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


October 2000 (BGVN 25:10) Citation IconCite this Report

May-October seismic unrest, modest ash clouds, and lava fountains

This report covers activity during March-October 2000. Visual and seismic activity increased notably in mid-March, and the alert level for Lokon-Empung was set at 2 on a scale of 1-4. A very dense gas emission caused vegetation on the eastern slope to wither. During this period, 45 deep volcanic (A-type) earthquakes, 210 shallow volcanic (B-type) earthquakes, and 12 tectonic earthquakes occurred. Tompaluan crater emitted white medium-dense gas that rose 50-150 m above the crater rim in late March. Seismicity changed, with fewer volcanic and more tectonic earthquakes than in the previous weeks. At the beginning of April, the number of A-type earthquakes increased, but visual activity remained similar to the previous week.

The white medium-dense gas emission from Tompaluan crater increased in height to 50-200 m above the rim in the second week of April. B-type earthquakes still dominated seismicity. Seismic intensity of B-type earthquakes increased toward the end of April. Gas emission remained similar, but decreased in height to 50-150 m above the crater rim. During the second week in May, an ash plume rose 100 m above the rim of Tompaluan crater. A volcanic ash advisory was issued on 15 May to warn aviators of the ash cloud emanating from Lokon-Empung. The advisory indicated ash at an altitude of 3,000 m with the potential to rise to 5,600 m and drift to the W. In mid-May, ash explosions increased, sending a white medium-thick plume to 50-200 m above the crater rim. Seismicity peaked with 228 A-type events, 247 B-type events, and 46 tectonic events.

Activity reports did not resume until mid-June, when little visual change took place and seismicity decreased. By the end of June, the white ash plume reached up to 250 m in height, and volcanic earthquakes still dominated the seismicity. White, thin ash explosions reached up to 300 m above the crater rim in late July. Kakaskasen Post Observatory reported a red illumination at the summit, and subsequent observations suggested the operative phenomenon was lava fountaining. The number of volcanic earthquakes decreased, but continuous tremor initiated with amplitudes ranging from 0.5 to 26 mm. The alert level for Lokon-Empung was raised from 2 to 3.

Activity remained similar during 31 July-7 August. White variably dense ash clouds continued to rise to heights of up to 300 m, and lava fountaining up to 25 m above Tompaluan crater was visible during the first week of August. Tectonic earthquakes became dominant, and the amplitude of volcanic tremor reached 0.5 mm. Ash plumes rose to 500 m above the crater rim, and lava fountaining persisted in mid-August. Continuous tremor had amplitudes of 0.5-1 mm. The ash plumes decreased in height to 300 m above the crater the following week. A volcanic ash advisory was issued on 15 August for aviators in the vicinity of Lokon. The number of volcanic earthquakes increased slightly, and tremor decreased in amplitude to 0.5 mm.

Activity increased slightly in September. The ash plume reached progressively higher, ranging from 50 m to 350 m and eventually up to 400 m. Continuous tremor amplitude increased to 0.5-1 mm. Few volcanic earthquakes occurred, so tectonic earthquakes were dominant. The alert level for Lokon-Empung was decreased from 3 to 2 in early October, and activity decreased during the month. The white variably dense ash plume decreased in height to 250 m, although lava fountaining remained visible at a consistent height of 25 m. Seismicity also decreased, and tremor ceased by the end of October.

Information Contacts: Dali Ahmad, Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI), Jalan Diponegoro No. 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/).


January 2001 (BGVN 26:01) Citation IconCite this Report

28 January explosion sends ash and glowing ejecta skyward

A white, low-density plume rose 50-200 m above Lokon's summit during 2-8 January 2001. Seismographs recorded a high number (~250) of both deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes during the week. The following week a plume continued to rise, and volcanic earthquakes decreased in number by about 90%. Discontinuous tremor with amplitudes of 0.5-6.0 mm was registered. During 16-22 January the plume rose up to 250 m in height. Volcanic earthquake activity again spiked, but reached only about half the quantity that had occurred during the first week of the month. Discontinuous tremor continued having amplitudes of 0.5-2.6 mm.

An explosion sent ash and glowing ejecta skyward from Lokon at 1920 on 28 January. Explosion earthquakes registered a maximum amplitude of 48 mm during a 175-second interval. Volcanic bombs were ejected from the crater and fell on Lokon's N slope. The ash cloud's specifics could not be measured due to rainy weather. Workers at the Kakaskasen observatory post detected an acrid sulfurous smell following the explosion. Observations the following day, 29 January, revealed a light-colored, high-density ash plume that rose ~300 m. The hazard status for Lokon was raised from 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4) following the explosion. Early February activity showed a decrease in unrest, although a high-density plume continued to rise up to 350 m, and small explosion earthquakes with amplitudes of 20-30 mm recurred.

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


November 2001 (BGVN 26:11) Citation IconCite this Report

March, May, and August eruptions; plumes to 1.5 km over summit

During February through at least 2 December 2001 at Lokon-Empung, seismic activity varied, three eruptions occurred, and plumes were observed rising 25-1,500 m above the summit (table 1). The volcano was at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4) until the week of 27 February - 5 March, when it was decreased to 2, remaining there through at least 2 December.

Table 1. Summary of seismicity and character of plumes at Lokon-Empung during February to 2 December 2001. At times, seismic data were not available because of a broken seismograph. During March, there were 13 deep and 12 shallow volcanic events on the 25th; there were 6 deep and 7 shallow volcanic events on the 26th. Courtesy of VSI.

Date Deep volcanic Shallow volcanic Tectonic Tremor Plume height above summit Comment
Feb 2001 -- -- 1 (M 1) -- 50-350 m Thin-to-thick white plumes.
Mar 2001 21 19 32 5 minutes (2-16 mm amplitude) 25-1,500 m Thin white plumes; 26 March explosion yielded dark ash plume, ashfall.
Apr 2001 4 2 114 Four episodes 40-300 m Thin white plume.
May 2001 92 218 124 Discontinuous (0.5-7 mm amplitude) 50-900 m White plumes; explosion on 20 May and gray-black plume drifting N.
Jun 2001 20 20 96 Discontinuous 25-300 m White plumes.
Jul 2001 162 263 134 Discontinuous (0.5-8 mm amplitude) 25-200 m White plumes.
Aug 2001 57 261 45 Discontinuous (0.5-1 mm amplitude) 25-270 m Thin white plume; 18 August explosion with ashfall.
Sep 2001 132 112 156 Discontinuous 25-250 m Thin white plumes.
Oct 2001 48 165 82 Discontinuous 50-250 m White and gray plumes.
Nov-2 Dec 2001 184 113 67 Discontinuous 50-250 m White to gray plumes.

Immediately following the 28 January eruption (BGVN 26:01), activity decreased. An M 1 tectonic earthquake was registered the week of 20-26 February. On 26 March at 1440 an eruption sent a dark ash plume 1,500 m above the crater rim that drifted E and N. No incandescent material was observed, but 25 minutes after the explosion ash started to fall at Kinilow and Kakaskasen villages (3.5 and 4 km from the crater, respectively). Activity slowly decreased though 1510, when thick white gas emissions rose 400 m above the crater. The ashfall was 0.3-0.5 cm thick at Kinilow, 0.1-0.3 cm thick at Kakaskasen, and 1-2 cm thick around the Pasahapen River ~1 km from the crater. After the initial explosion, volcanic tremor recorded between 1442 and 1457 had a maximum amplitude of 2-16 mm.

Another eruption began at 2014 on 20 May, ejecting glowing material that rose as high as 400 m and then fell around the crater. The explosion produced a gray-black plume that rose to 900 m and drifted N. At 1510, a thick-white plume reached 400 m above the summit. Based on field observations, 1-2 mm of ash was deposited in a wide area around the volcano, including Pineleng village and the provincial capital of Manado (25 km N of the volcano). In anticipation of the eruption, the Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI) coordinated with local government agencies, contacted the Sam Ratulangi and Cengkareng airports, and warned people living around the volcano.

During early July, instrumental monitoring showed increased activity, based on the high number of shallow volcanic earthquakes. During 30 July-12 August seismic activity decreased. Small explosions produced plumes that rose 25-250 m above the summit.

On 18 August at 2230 an explosion produced an ash cloud that rose ~800 m above the crater and drifted over N Manado. Based on visual observations, activity did not change significantly after the explosion, but the seismicity showed a major increase. Deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes averaged 8 events per day, higher than the normal average of about 5 events per day. During July to August, seismicity decreased to nearly normal levels.

During mid-October, seismicity increased again. On 19 October an M 1 tectonic earthquake was registered, and the number of volcanic earthquakes increased significantly, followed by an interval of high-frequency tremor. Seismicity continued to increase through mid-November, to an average of 19 events per day. During the week 12-18 November, seismicity began to decrease again but still remained higher than normal, at about 10 events per day. Seismicity continued to decrease through November, and by 2 December had returned to normal levels.

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


February 2002 (BGVN 27:02) Citation IconCite this Report

Explosions, 1.5-km ash plumes, and tremor through at least February 2002

After an explosion at Lokon on 28 January 2001 (BGVN 26:01), the hazard status was raised from 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4). During the following two months activity continued but decreased and the hazard status was reduced to 2. Then, at 1440 on 26 March, Lokon exploded again, producing dark ash that rose 1.5 km above the crater rim and drifted E and N. The explosion did not produce any incandescent material. Ash began falling on Kinilow (3.5 km from the crater) and Kakaskasen villages (4 km from the crater) 25 minutes later, eventually reaching a thickness of 1-2 cm near Pasahapen river (~1 km away). Tremor shortly after the explosion had a maximum amplitude of 2-16 mm.

During April and May there were occasional tremor earthquakes with amplitudes of ~0.5-1 mm. White, medium-thick plumes from Tompaluan crater were observed from the Kakaskasen observatory. An explosion from Tompaluan at 2014 on 20 May produced a grey-black plume 900 m high that drifted N. The plume was accompanied by glowing ejecta to a height of 400 m. Subsequently, activity fluctuated and white, medium-thick plumes ~50-250 m high were visible from the observatory.

At 2230 on 18 August an explosion produced ash that reached 800 m above the crater rim and spread 25 km N to Manado. Seismicity increased significantly shortly after the explosion, then returned to periods of varying intensity during the following months. An M 1 tectonic earthquake on 19 October was followed by periods of high-frequency tremor. Gray plumes rose 50-200 m above the Tompaluan crater. These conditions continued until 25 October. The significant increase in seismic activity and the changing color of the plume signaled a need for intensive monitoring in anticipation of probable higher activity levels. Increased levels continued until early December when activity decreased and the hazard level was lowered to 1.

The hazard level was again raised to 2 after an eruption on 9 February 2002. Plumes rose to 1.0 km and moved toward the SE, depositing ash (~0.5-2 mm thick) around the villages of Kakaskasen III, Talete I, Talete II, and Rurukan. The phreatic eruption was triggered by extensive rainfall; specifically, 602 mm of rain fell during January 2002 compared to 193 mm during December 2001. This excessive rainfall was thought to cause instability of the edifice. After the eruption, activity decreased significantly and remained low through at least February 2002.

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


April 2002 (BGVN 27:04) Citation IconCite this Report

Ash eruptions and increased seismicity in mid-April, Alert Level raised to 3

An eruption at Lokon on 9 February, triggered by extensive rainfall, sent ash plumes to 1 km and deposited ash in surrounding villages. Activity then decreased significantly and remained low through February 2002 (BGVN 27:02). During February through at least April, Tompaluan crater emitted plumes 50-350 m above the crater rim.

During early April deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes increased (table 2). Eruptions on 10 and 12 April ejected glowing material from the crater. A thick white-gray ash plume rose 1 km above the crater rim. During 13-14 April gas/ash explosions occurred nearly continuously, with eight explosions on 13 April and five on the 14th. Ash explosions rose 50-75 m above the crater rim. Tremor amplitude increased from 0.5-2 mm on 11 April to 4-48 mm by 14 April. The Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI) raised the Alert Level to 3 on 12 April. A total of 25 and 68 small explosions per week were registered during 22-28 April and 29 April-5 May, respectively. During the following weeks the number of small explosions dropped to only 6 per week. As of 26 May, tremor fluctuated (0.5-30 mm amplitude) and gas explosions continued.

Table 2. Earthquakes recorded at Lokon during 11 February through 26 May 2002. Courtesy VSI.

Date Deep volcanic (A-type) Shallow volcanic (B-type) Tectonic
11 Feb-17 Feb 2002 -- 2 17
18 Feb-24 Feb 2002 4 1 41
25 Feb-03 Mar 2002 -- 3 16
04 Mar-10 Mar 2002 -- 1 34
11 Mar-17 Mar 2002 -- 1 28
18 Mar-24 Mar 2002 10 11 11
25 Mar-31 Mar 2002 -- 1 17
01 Apr-07 Apr 2002 44 78 12
08 Apr-14 Apr 2002 90 184 10
15 Apr-21 Apr 2002 -- 34 43
22 Apr-28 Apr 2002 13 81 35
29 Apr-05 May 2002 2 7 25
06 May-12 May 2002 111 482 18
13 May-19 May 2002 84 207 35

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


July 2002 (BGVN 27:07) Citation IconCite this Report

Increased activity; gas plumes with occassional ash emitted during June and July 2002

During 27 May-4 August 2002, activity was higher than normal at Lokon. Volcanic and tectonic earthquakes dominated the seismicity (table 3). Generally thin white plumes, reported as "ash plumes" after 1 July, were reaching 25-150 m above the crater rim. Tremor amplitude was 0.5-1 mm during 27 May-2 June. The Alert Level was decreased from 3 to 2 during early June and remained at 2 throughout the report period.

Table 3. Earthquakes occurring at Lokon during 3 June-4 August 2002. Courtesy VSI.

Date Deep volcanic (A-type) Shallow volcanic (B-type) Tectonic
03 Jun-09 Jun 2002 18 35 32
10 Jun-16 Jun 2002 19 30 29
17 Jun-23 Jun 2002 5 30 37
24 Jun-30 Jun 2002 14 35 23
01 Jul-07 Jul 2002 24 93 30
08 Jul-14 Jul 2002 49 111 31
15 Jul-21 Jul 2002 7 24 26
22 Jul-28 Jul 2002 19 22 41
29 Jul-04 Aug 2002 8 38 27

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


December 2002 (BGVN 27:12) Citation IconCite this Report

Higher-than-normal activity continues through at least December 2002

Higher-than-normal activity continued at Lokon-Empung during August-December 2002. Throughout the report period a "white-thin ash plume" rose 25-75 m above the crater rim. No ashfall was reported. Seismicity was dominated by shallow volcanic and tectonic earthquakes (table 4).

Table 4. Earthquakes recorded at Lokon during 5 August-29 December 2002. No reports were issued during 11 November-22 December. Courtesy VSI.

Date Deep volcanic (A-type) Shallow volcanic (B-type) Tectonic
05 Aug-11 Aug 2002 19 42 32
12 Aug-18 Aug 2002 9 11 35
19 Aug-25 Aug 2002 14 51 42
26 Aug-01 Sep 2002 19 53 28
02 Sep-08 Sep 2002 14 39 32
09 Sep-15 Sep 2002 18 50 33
16 Sep-22 Sep 2002 16 37 39
23 Sep-29 Sep 2002 2 18 46
30 Sep-06 Oct 2002 9 17 39
07 Oct-13 Oct 2002 5 7 35
14 Oct-20 Oct 2002 5 4 29
21 Oct-27 Oct 2002 6 25 44
28 Oct-03 Nov 2002 0 1 35
04 Nov-10 Nov 2002 1 4 26
23 Dec-29 Dec 2002 29 74 31

During the week of 4-10 November, the hazard status was reduced from Alert Level 2 to 1 (on a scale of 1-4). On 23 December a "white-thick ash plume" rose 100-250 m over Tompaluan crater. No ashfall was reported. [A later report did note ashfall.] The same day, volcanic tremor with an amplitude of 0.5-2 mm occurred. A total of 42 emissions were reported during 23-29 December. The Alert Level returned to 2 by the end of the report period.

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


May 2003 (BGVN 28:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Increased explosive activity during January-April 2003; local ashfall

During 6 January-4 May 2003, higher-than-normal activity was dominated by deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes (table 5), along with gas-and-ash emissions. Several explosions occurred during a period of increased activity in late January-early April. Throughout the report period, a "white-thick ash" emission rose 25-500 m above Tompaluan crater. The Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI) issued a special report during 1-13 February 2003 that described activity in 2002 and early 2003 leading up to the recent increase in activity (table 6).

Table 5. Seismicity at Lokon during 6 January-4 May 2003. Courtesy VSI.

Date Deep volcanic (A-type) Shallow volcanic (B-type) Emission Tectonic Explosion
06 Jan-12 Jan 2003 1 6 10 13 --
13 Jan-19 Jan 2003 1 3 -- 20 --
20 Jan-26 Jan 2003 8 6 4 23 --
27 Jan-02 Feb 2003 6 4 31 11 --
03 Feb-09 Feb 2003 239 763 4 9 --
10 Feb-16 Feb 2003 32 23 7 14 4
17 Feb-23 Feb 2003 239 763 4 9 1
24 Feb-02 Mar 2003 97 353 52 19 12
03 Mar-09 Mar 2003 -- 3 185 6 2
10 Mar-16 Mar 2003 -- -- 90 14 --
17 Mar-23 Mar 2003 2 4 38 17 --
24 Mar-30 Mar 2003 49 335 33 7 1
31 Mar-06 Apr 2003 7 130 5 18 1
07 Apr-13 Apr 2003 4 15 86 17 --
14 Apr-20 Apr 2003 44 285 -- 17 --
21 Apr-27 Apr 2003 46 98 -- 14 --
28 Apr-04 May 2003 25 71 -- 24 --

Table 6. Summary of a special report of activity at Lokon during 2002-2003. Courtesy VSI.

Date Event
09 Feb 2002 An explosion ejected ash to ~ 1,000 m above the crater. Ash fell on Kakaskasen, Telete, and Rurukan villages in the Tondano District in thicknesses of 0.5-2 cm.
10 Apr 2002 At 2302 volcanic earthquakes began to increase, reaching a total of 184 events. An explosion at the same time ejected ash to ~ 1,000 m and glowing material to 250 m above the crater. Ash fell on some villages in thicknesses of 1-3 mm.
12 Apr 2002 At 1816 an explosion ejected ash to 800 m and glowing material to 150 m. Ash drifted S and fell around Kayawu village.
23 Dec 2002 At 0532 an explosion at Tompaluan crater produced an 800-m-high ash column. Ash drifted S and fell around the edifice. Before the explosion, an increase in seismicity (130 volcanic earthquakes in less than 12 hours) was noted.
03 Feb 2003 Volcanic earthquakes began to increase, with a total of 255 events occurring through 7 February.
08 Feb 2003 Tremor was followed by an explosion at 0443 that ejected ash to 1,400 m above the crater. The ash drifted S and was accompanied by glowing material. Ash fell around Taratara, Waloan, and Kayawu villages, at thicknesses of 0.5-1 cm.
10 Feb 2003 After two days repose, at 2219 an explosion occurred. The height of the ash column could not be observed due to heavy rain near the summit. The explosion was preceded by a booming sound. Based on seismograph recordings, the explosion was of medium-high intensity. Explosion earthquakes stopped at 2335. A phreatic eruption at 1406 lasted for 8 minutes.
12 Feb 2003 A significant increase in volcanic earthquakes, mainly during 0100-1000. An explosion at 1408 was followed by a larger explosion at 1102 (based on seismic data; visual observation obscured by thick fog). At 1133 the explosion diminished. At 1225 continuous tremor began with amplitudes of 13-55 mm that continued until 0046 on 13 February.

On 25 January, there was a felt shock (I on the MMI scale). During late January, ash emissions from the crater thickened and emission earthquakes increased. On 3 February the number of deep volcanic earthquakes began to increase at 0600; by 1000, 35 had occurred.

Ash emissions continued to thicken and deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes increased during early February. Emission earthquakes also increased, indicating some low ash explosions. On 8 February at 0443 an explosion ejected ash and glowing material. A booming sound was heard for 30 seconds. A dense ash cloud reached 1,400 m above the crater. Ash fell over the S part of the crater and around Kayau, Tara-tara I and II, and Woloan II and III villages. Ashfall reached thicknesses of 0.5-1 mm. The Alert Level was increased from 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4).

Explosions occurred on 10 February at 1405 and 2219. The maximum amplitude of the explosion earthquakes was 50 mm. The height of the ash column could not be observed due to heavy rain. Explosion activity continued on 12 and 16 February. VSI reported that the Alert Level was increased to 4 on 12 February at 0800. From that time through 1100 on 12 February, shallow volcanic earthquakes increased to a total of 164. An explosion followed at 1102, but the ash column could not be observed due to heavy rain. Tremor was recorded beginning on 13 February with amplitudes of 0.5-38 mm.

VSI reported that during 18-20 February, there were 16 explosions and a "white-gray ash" column rose 500 m. An explosion on 22 February was preceded by a swarm of 224 shallow volcanic earthquakes. On 21 February, 29 deep volcanic earthquakes occurred. Within two days, the number of volcanic earthquakes decreased gradually and ended with a large explosion on 23 February at 1034. The explosion was accompanied by thundering and a booming sound, and a "thick-gray ash" column reached 2,500 m above the crater. Ash drifted toward the SE. Tremor (with an amplitude of 1-20 mm) began soon after the explosion. Lokon was at Alert Level 3 during 17-23 February.

During 24 February-2 March, 12 explosions occurred and a "white-gray ash" column rose 300 m. An explosion on 2 March at 2129 was accompanied by glowing material that fell within the crater. A dark gray ash column rose 1,500 m above the crater and ash fell toward the Tondano area (~14.5 km from the crater) with a thickness of ~1 mm. Tremor (with amplitudes of 0.5-25 mm) began soon after the explosion. The explosion had been preceded by a swarm of 204 shallow volcanic earthquakes. A total of 77 deep volcanic earthquakes occurred during 26 February-1 March 2003. Following the 2 March explosion, there were 2 medium-intensity explosions that produced a ~600-m-high "white-gray ash" column.

Ash explosions and emission earthquakes ended on 14 March. On 24 March, the Alert Level was lowered to 2. Normal activity continued, comprised mainly of "white-thick ash" emissions from Tompaluan crater that reached up to 300 m. Tremor continued with amplitudes of 0.5-12 mm.

On 27 March at 0156, an explosion produced a 1,500-m-high ash column that was accompanied by glowing material. Booming and blasting sounds were heard. Ash drifted S and some fell around the edifice, while glowing material reached 400 m high before falling around the crater. Activity was low after the explosion. Tremor continued with amplitudes of 0.5-24 mm.

Following another explosion on 1 April, activity at Lokon decreased. A "white-thick ash" plume continued to rise 100-450 m above the crater. Seismicity was dominated by tremor with amplitudes of 0.5-25 mm. Shallow volcanic earthquakes increased on 15 April to 106 events. Through 20 April, the daily number of shallow volcanic earthquakes fluctuated between 23 and 56 events, but there were no explosions. Activity remained low, but above normal, through at least 4 May.

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


October 2003 (BGVN 28:10) Citation IconCite this Report

Small gas plume; high but variable shallow volcanic seismicity

The hazard status at Lokon-Empung throughout the report period of 2 June-19 October was at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Between 2 June and 5 October a white gas plume consistently rose 25-50 m above Tompaluan crater. The gas plume rose slightly higher, to 75 m, during the following two weeks. Seismicity remained above normal background levels during this time, with some variation (table 7). Shallow volcanic earthquakes increased in late July, but by September the weekly count was lower than in early July, eventually reaching a low the week of 15-21 September when no such events were detected. Seismicity quickly returned to high values of 138-209 shallow events per week in October.

Table 7. Seismicity at Lokon-Empung, 2 June-19 October 2003. Data was not available for 16-29 June and 04-31 August. Courtesy of VSI.

Date Deep volcanic (A-type) Shallow volcanic (B-type) Tectonic
02 Jun-08 Jun 2003 13 45 20
09 Jun-15 Jun 2003 25 88 27
30 Jun-06 Jul 2003 18 81 19
07 Jul-13 Jul 2003 17 48 15
14 Jul-20 Jul 2003 9 91 19
21 Jul-27 Jul 2003 25 232 21
28 Jul-03 Aug 2003 16 157 10
01 Sep-07 Sep 2003 11 44 11
08 Sep-14 Sep 2003 7 36 20
15 Sep-21 Sep 2003 12 0 22
22 Sep-28 Sep 2003 34 22 20
29 Sep-05 Oct 2003 33 209 24
06 Oct-12 Oct 2003 5 159 14
13 Oct-19 Oct 2003 24 138 14

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


December 2003 (BGVN 28:12) Citation IconCite this Report

During November, elevated seismicity and a minor gas plume

Ongoing seismicity at Lokon was reported in BGVN 28:10. The Volcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI) report for 27 October-30 November showed continuing seismicity (table 8), and a white gas plume rising 75-150 m from the Tompaluan crater. The volcano remained at alert level 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

Table 8. Seismicity recorded at Lokon-Empung, 27 October-30 November 2003. Courtesy of VSI.

Date Deep volcanic (A-type) Shallow volcanic (B-type) Tectonic
27 Oct-02 Nov 2003 3 29 22
03 Nov-09 Nov 2003 15 171 26
10 Nov-16 Nov 2003 9 146 43
17 Nov-23 Nov 2003 22 96 20
24 Nov-30 Nov 2003 7 116 21

Information Contacts: Dali Ahmad, Hetty Triastuty, Nia Haerani and Suswati, Vulcanological Survey of Indonesia (VSI), Jalan Diponegoro No. 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


March 2006 (BGVN 31:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Steaming and seismically active during January-October 2005

The twin volcanoes of Lokon and Empung exhibited low levels of activity during 2005. Table 9 is a summary of reported gas emissions and number of volcanic earthquakes during 2005.

Table 9. Summary of activity at Lokon-Empung during 2005, indicating the height and composition of plumes observed and the numbers of earthquakes recorded. Data courtesy of CVGHM.

Date Deep volcanic (A-type) Shallow volcanic (B-type) Plume height Plume color and composition
18 Jan-24 Jan 2005 9 75 -- --
24 Jan-30 Jan 2005 3 88 35 m white gas
02 May 2005 3 44 -- --
09 May 2005 3 139 50 m white gas
26 Sep-02 Oct 2005 6 117 15 m white gas
03 Oct-09 Oct 2005 5 126 25 m white gas

Information Contacts: Dali Ahmad, Hetty Triastuty, Nia Haerani and Suswati, Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


February 2008 (BGVN 33:02) Citation IconCite this Report

June 2007-March 2008, variable seismicity and minor white plumes

Our most recent report on Lokon-Empung discussed low seismicity and plume emissions between January-October 2005 (BGVN 31:03). Since then, available reports from the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM) discussed seismic events in June and December 2007, and January 2008. Plumes mentioned in these reports were small, white in color, and only rose 15-40 m, occasionally up to 125 m, above the rim of the active vent area (Tompaluan crater), in the saddle between the peaks of Lokon and Empung.

During 11-24 June 2007 CVGHM reported 52 A-type and 156 B-type earthquakes, but no tremor. Only one earthquake was felt by residents. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a scale of 1-4).

On 9 December 2007, CVGHM raised the Alert Level from 2 to 3 based on visual observations, inflation detected by deformation instruments, and an increase in seismicity. The water in the Tompaluan crater changed color from green to gray and noises from degassing became stronger. Visitors were advised not to go within 2 km of the crater.

After a short period of decline, seismicity began to increase again on 22 January 2008, peaking on 3 February. Visitors were prohibited from going within 1 km of the crater.

Information Contacts: Dali Ahmad, Hetty Triastuty, Nia Haerani and Suswati, Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/).


June 2011 (BGVN 36:06) Citation IconCite this Report

July 2011 ash plumes spur 4,000 to 6,000 to evacuate

This report discusses Lokon-Empung during February to mid-July 2011. There were occasional modest ash-bearing eruptions and elevated seismicity through June. Stronger ash plumes during July spurred evacuations. Our previous report noted unrest during 2007 through March 2008 (BGVN 33:02). According to the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), since February 2008 through the reporting period, seismic activity was characterized by daily volcanic earthquakes and occasional phreatic eruptions when rainfall was high.

According to CVGHM and news articles, on 22 February 2011, a phreatic eruption discharged from Tompaluan crater (figures 4 and 5). The eruption was possibly triggered by high rainfall. It produced an ash plume that rose 400 m above the crater rim and drifted SE.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 4. An index map and globe showing Indonesia and some neighboring countries. Note the location of Sulawesi island (Indonesia) and Lokon-Empung volcano. Courtesy of Relief Web.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 5. A 1982 sketch map looking from the N at the three main craters at Lokon-Empung. Note the middle crater (Tompaluan) is the one from which the current eruption is venting. This, multiple photos, and other information appears in the GVP's Photo Gallery associated with this volcano. The word "air" in the bottom of the crater means water in Indonesian; it refers to the shallow lake that periodically appears on the crater floor. Photo courtesy of the Volcanological Survey of Indonesia.

CVGHM reported that, during 1-25 June 2011, white plumes rose 50-200 m above Tompaluan crater. On 26 June, a phreatic eruption ejected material that both fell around the crater and produced a gray plume that rose 400 m above the crater rim and drifted N. Seismicity increased the next day and white plumes rose 50-200 m above the crater. The Alert Level was raised to 3; prohibiting visitors and residents entering within a 3-km radius of the crater.

According to CVGHM, during 28 June-9 July 2011 white plumes rose 50-400 m above Tompaluan crater and gray ash plumes rose 100-500 m above the crater. An ash eruption on 10 July 2011 produced white-to-gray plumes that rose 200-400 m above the crater. Fluctuations in the sulfur dioxide gas emission rate were noted during 30 June-10 July. Based on gas flux, seismicity, visual observations, and hazard assessment, CVGHM raised the Alert Level to 4. On 11 July, the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) reported that ash plumes detected in satellite imagery rose to an altitude of 1.5 km and drifted NW. According to news articles, close to 1,000 residents were evacuated from the area during 11-12 July 2011.

HOPE Worldwide, a non-profit non-governmental organization, issued a report on 15 July 2011 stating that at 2331 on the 14 July Lokon erupted and sent lava, ash, and gases 1.5 km over the summit. "No death is yet to be reported due to the eruption, but there are 4,412 persons displaced in the Tomohon city, just south of Manado city, the capital of North Sulawesi Province." Displaced residents went to schools and a city park.

Figures 6-8 show photos of molten material and eruptions taken from various perspectives on 14 and 17 July. The photo shown as figure 8 accompanied another panoramic shot with the eruption.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 6. Lokon volcano photographed at night on 14 July 2011. Tompaluan crater contained a small lake and molten material appeared on the far crater side of the crater. Courtesy of the blog named 11reviews.blogspot.com.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 7. Lokon erupting late on 17 July 2011, spewing rocks, lava and ash hundreds of meters into the air. Courtesy of AFP.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 8. An eruption at Lokon seen across the water from distance (taken at 1100 on 17 July 2011). This photo was posted on the Flickr website. Copyrighted photo by Christian Loader (scubazooimages.com).

A video posted on The Guardian website (on 15 July) shows people dispensing face masks to residents as ash from Lokon falls. The original video apparently came from Associated Press (2011; see Reference list).

According to the news agency AFP, a small eruption—the largest since late June—lit up the night sky on 17 July, sending a large ash plume '3.5 km up into the sky.' A nearby airport was placed on alert, but as of 18 July flights were not affected. The article said that, since this latest (17 July) eruption, more than 5,200 residents had been evacuated. Other reports noted the number of displaced residents in the range 4,000-6,000.

Reference. Associated Press, 2011, Indonesian volcano erupts, Thousands of residents evacuated from slopes of Mount Lokon in Sulawesi province (AP photo used in 15 July 2011 article on The Guardian.co.uk website) (URL: http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jul/15/indonesian-volcano-erupts).

Information Contacts: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (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/); HOPE Worldwide, 353 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 200, Wayne, PA, 19087 USA URL: http://www.hopeww.org); Associated Press at CBS news (URL: http://www.cbsnews.com); Tempo (URL: http://www.tempointeraktif.com/); Media Indonesia.com (URL: http://www.mediaindonesia.com/); Agence France Press (AFP) (URL: http://www.afp.com/afpcom/en/); Blogspot.com (URL: http://11reviews.blogspot.com)


November 2011 (BGVN 36:11) Citation IconCite this Report

Ongoing minor ash-bearing eruptions through at least November 2011

Lokon-Empung has been in a state of unrest since 2007 (BGVN 33:02). Between mid-February through mid-July 2011, occasional phreatic eruptions, modest ash plumes and elevated seismicity occurred, with a larger ash plume in July 2011 (BGVN 36:06). This report addresses seismic events from mid-July through 1 December 2011.

According to the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), during 20-21 July 2011, seismicity and visual observations of Tompaluan crater in the saddle between the twin peaks of Lokon and Empung indicated that activity continued to be high. On 20 July plumes rose 100-500 m above Tompaluan crater, and during 21-24 July 2011 white plumes again rose 100-300 m. CVGHM noted that, since an eruption on 18 July, most data showed a decline in activity and therefore on 24 July the Alert Level was lowered to 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Residents and tourists were not permitted within 3 km of the crater. A news article (Straits Times) stated that on that same day about 5,000 residents that had evacuated returned home, and about 200 people remained in shelters.

CVGHM reported that during 24 July-8 August 2011 seismicity decreased at Tompaluan crater, with a drastic reduction on 26 July. According to a news article (BNO News, accessed on Daijiworld News), during 27 July-8 August white plumes rose 100-400 m above the crater. The article stated that at the end of August, Tompaluan crater erupted several times (12 times on 28 August). One explosion on 29 August 2011 ejected material 250 m above the crater. According to the article, activity decreased after 29 August. The article also noted that 222 people remained at temporary refugee camps because their homes were located within 3 km of the crater.

CVGHM reported that on 10 October 2011 white and gray plumes rose 100-300 m above Tompaluan crater. Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) reported that on 11 October an ash plume rose to an altitude of 2.1 km.

According to a news article (Kompas.com), a gray plume rose 1.2 km above Tompaluan crater and drifted SW on 26 October, followed by an explosion that sent incandescent material as far as 800 m away from Tompaluan crater. A second eruption produced a plume that rose 500 m above the crater.

Information Contacts: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (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/); Straits Times (URL: http://www.straitstimes.com); BNO News (URL: http://www.bnonews.com/); Kompas.com (URL: http://www.kompas.com/); Antara News (URL: http://www.antaranews.com/en/); Daijiworld News (URL: http://www.daijiworld.com/).


May 2012 (BGVN 37:05) Citation IconCite this Report

Small plumes in 2012; activity increase in April-May

Our previous report on Lokon-Empung volcano noted activity to late-October 2011 (BGVN 36:11). The present report adds subsequent information through May 2012. Most of the following information was based on summaries of activity by the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM; also known as Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigosi Bencana Geologi-PVMBG) and the Volcano Disaster Assistance Program (VDAP). A map of Indonesia showing the location of Lokon-Empung volcano is presented in figure 9, and figure 10 shows a hazard map of the area around the volcano.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 9. Map of Indonesia showing the location of Lokon-Empung volcano on the N tip of Sulawesi. Courtesy of CVGHM and VDAP.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 10. A sketch map showing the location of Lokon-Empung volcano and various nearby hazard zones and populated areas. Courtesy of the CVGHM and VDAP.

Following the 26 October 2011 explosion from Tompaluan crater (the most active vent, located in the saddle between the peaks of Lokon to the S, and Empung to the N; see fig 10) that sent incandescent blocks up to 800 m away from the crater (BGVN 36:11), a small eruption was reported on 7 November. The Alert Level remained at 3 (on a scale of 1-4) since 24 July 2011.

Three explosions from Tompaluan crater were recorded by CVGHM on 27 December 2011, along with 23 deep volcanic earthquakes and 40 shallow volcanic earthquakes. Explosions from the crater produced ash plumes on 9-12 and 21 February 2012 (figure 11).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 11. PALAKAT news agency eruption photo from 9 February 2012, taken from the outskirts of the city of Tomohon (~5.3 km SW on Tokon volcano), looking NW. Lokon volcano is to the left, and Empung volcano is the flat-topped edifice to the right. The eruptive column is issuing from the Tompaluan crater. Courtesy of CVGHM and VDAP.

Lokon-Empung's activity increased during 23 April 2012, when there were 180 volcanic earthquakes. On 24 April an eruption was accompanied by loud "thumping" noises heard at local observation posts, though fog prevented views of the crater. Satellite observations on 25 April showed ash and block deposits from this eruption scattered to the N and E of Tompaluan crater out to a distance of ~400 m from the crater rim.

The Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) reported on 1 May 2012 that ash plumes were detected in satellite imagery and reported by ground-based observers. The Jakarta Post reported that Lokon-Empung erupted on 2 May 2012 at 1155. This eruption was larger in magnitude than the one on 24-25 April 2012. The 2 May eruption was preceded by a number of mild earthquakes that occurred over a span of 2 min. A report noted that "smoke" plumes reached an altitude of 2.5 km. Table 10 gives a chronological listing of activity at Lokon-Empung from 1 November 2011 to 1 May 2012.

Table 10. Darwin VAAC plume observations at Lokon-Empung volcano for November 2011-2 May 2012 (with times in UTC). Note that meteorological clouds often obscured satellite observations. 'VA' denotes volcanic ash plume; '--' denotes data not reported. 'Remarks in VAAC reports' includes CVGHM observations typically made from the ground, as well as some media sources. Courtesy of Darwin VAAC, CVGHM, and VDAP.

Observation Date Time Plume observations (altitude, drift distance, direction) Remarks in VAAC reports
27-28 Dec 2011 -- VA: 1.5 km Low level eruption reported by media.
29 Dec 2011 0415 -- VA reported by CVGHM, altitude 3.7 km.
06 Jan 2012 -- -- VA, altitude 1.5 km.
09 Feb 2012 0020 VA: 2 km Explosion preceded by 16 hrs of increasing seismicity.
10 Feb 2012 0145-0315 -- VA reported from ground, altitude 2.4-3.4 km.
11 Feb 2012 0330 -- VA reported from ground, altitude 3 km, preceded by 16 hr of increasing seismicity.
21 Feb 2012 0352, 0356 -- Two moderate-intensity explosions.
24 Apr 2012 -- -- Minor-intensity, explosive eruption; diffuse white plumes rose 25-50 m above Tompalaun crater, scattered ash and block deposits N and E of crater out to distance of ~400 m from crater rim.
01 May 2012 0532 Low level VA, 2.3-3.7 km VA and low level eruption reported 74 km to N from ground.

Information Contacts: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 57, Bandung 40122, Indonesia (URL: http://www.vsi.esdm.go.id/); Volcano Disaster Assistance Program (VDAP), US Geological Survey (USGS), 1300 SE Cardinal Court, Bldg. 10, Suite 100, Vancouver, WA 98683; 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/); The Jakarta Post (URL: http://www.thejakartapost.com/); Kompas.com (URL: http://www.kompas.com/); Straits Times (URL: http://www.straitstimes.com); Antara News (URL: http://www.antaranews.com/en/); Daijiworld News (URL: http://www.daijiworld.com/).


March 2013 (BGVN 38:03) Citation IconCite this Report

Eruptions continue into early 2013

This report discusses ash-bearing eruptions seen during the reporting interval, 15 September 2012 to April 2013. As described in our 2012 report (BGVN 37:05) the twin volcanoes of Lokon-Empung have remained restless since 2008, typically with small eruptions amid seismic unrest. Recent activity is based on summaries that have been posted by the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM, also known as Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigosi Bencana Geologi-PVMBG). The active crater is referred to as Tompaluan, a vent that resides in the saddle between the peaks of Lokon and Empung (figure 12). An estimated 120,000 people live within 10 km of the volcano. Lokon-Empung lies 20 km S of Manado, the second largest city in Sulawesi (2010 pop. 2.27 million), a metropolis served by the Sam Ratulangi International Airport that closed for four days during Lokon's 1991 eruption (see figures 9 and 10 in BGVN 37:05). In April 2012, CVGHM raised the hazard Alert Level to 4 (on a scale of 1-4).

Figure (see Caption) Figure 12. Lokon-Empung volcano showing the Tompaluan vent between the two principal volcano peaks. Photo by Agus Solihin, 1998 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).

According to the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC), ground based observers reported that on 15 September (2012) an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of ~3 km. Satellite imagery showed the ash plume drifting 185 km SE. Another ash plume was reported on 21 September, rising to an altitude of ~3 km; however, in this case an ash plume was not identified in satellite imagery.

According to the Darwin VAAC, CVGHM reported that on 6 October an ash plume from Lokon Empung rose to an altitude of ~3.7 km; the plume altitude was determined by wind data. A thermal anomaly was also detected in satellite imagery on 6 October.

Several news sources (Examiner.com, Jakarta Globe, XINMSN News (Singapore), Jakarta Post) were amalgamated to describe the October activity. According to a news article, an eruption on 7 October 2012 ejected incandescent tephra as high as 350 m above the crater and generated an ash plume that rose ~1.5 km. The article also noted that Lokon Empung had erupted 41 times in September and 3 times on 5 October.

Government volcanologist Farid Bina reported from the volcano's monitoring post in North Sulawesi province, "The eruption on 7 October was the seventh biggest eruption since mid-September". Thunderous sounds were heard nearly 6 km away. The National Agency for Disaster Management (BNPB) said the eruption ejected debris 350 m high and produced an ash plume at least 1.5 km high that drifted NE. It wasn't clear how high the ascending ash actually reached because the mountain was engulfed in ash and heavy rain fell around its cloud covered crater. Bina said that there were no casualties or damages. The head of North Sulawesi Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), Hoyke Makarawung, said that the amount of ashfall blanketing the affected areas was insignificant. BPBD reminded residents about the danger of respiratory ailments, urging those in ash-prone areas to wear masks. A 2.5-km exclusion zone around the volcano continued to be enforced during this heightened activity.

Figure 13 shows Lokon-Empung erupting on 8 October 2012. The plume rises from Tompaluan, the active vent at Lokon which lies in the saddle between the two peaks. The ash column mixed with atmospheric clouds, rising to an uncertain altitude.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 13. Lokon-Empung eruption seen 8 October 2012. Courtesy of the Reuters.com and Guardian.cu.uk.

Based on a Significant Meteorological Notice (SIGMET), the Darwin VAAC reported that on 11 November an ash plume from Lokon Empung rose to an altitude of ~1.5 km. The VAAC again reported that on 28 November, an eruption from Lokon Empung produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of ~4.9 km; the plume was not however detected in satellite imagery.

On 6 December, Lokon emitted a billowing ash plume (figure 14) that produced ash that fell mostly on the SE flank. Milder activity resumed on 8 and 9 December as shown in figures 15 and 16. December's second small eruption took place on 10 December.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 14. Two views of the ash plume emitted at Lokon on 6 December 2012. Courtesy of Photovolcanica.com.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 15. The Tompaluam vent at Lokon-Empung viewed at night on 8 December 2012. Courtesy of welt.da.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 16. Lokon degassing on 9 December with red and orange glow reflecting of a blowing plume; and a small emission on 10 December. Courtesy of Photovolcanica.com.

The eruptions seen on 6 and 10 December were typical of Lokon's recent behavior. They involved a succession of overlapping explosions resulting in sustained ash emission and the production of an ash plume. According to Darwin VAAC, these two eruptions produced ash clouds reaching ~3.4 and~ 4.3 km in altitude, respectively.

According to CVGHM there were no reports of casualties or damages during the December 2012 eruptions. Enlarging the current exclusion zone by specifying a new radius of larger size would cut the main road connecting the towns of Manado and Tomohon and thus burden a much larger population. Consequently, the Alert Level was held at "3" (out of 4) that has been in effect since July 2011. Immediate precursors to eruptions at Lokon are typically small and of short duration (minutes to hours), and eruptions may occur with very little additional warning.

In January (2013), based on ground reports, the Darwin VAAC reported ash plumes from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of ~2.4 km during the period 2-8 January, that report was not however confirmed by satellite imagery. The VAAC again issued a special Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for volcanic ash during 15-16 January, again based on reports from CVGHM and the Aviation Volcanic Information site (ASHTAM - www.ashtam.co.uk). The ash plumes reportedly rose to altitudes of ~3.7 4.5 km, but satellite imagery did not confirm the ash reports.

According to news articles, Lokon Empung erupted twice on 31 January, producing an ash plume that rose 800 m above the crater after the first eruption. Seismicity had increased the day before. In another article the head of the Lokon observation post reported that eruptions from Lokon occurred daily, and specifically that nine eruptions had occurred on 2 February. The CVGHM reported that a significant explosion occurred at Lokon on 3 February which produced an ash plume which rose ~3-4 km and which drifted S and SW, but the ash plume was not detected in satellite imagery.

CVGHM observers at the Kakaskasen Volcano Observatory (KKVO) in North Sulawesi, Indonesia reported increased seismic unrest on 9 February. The character of the seismicity suggested to CVGHM that a magmatic intrusion was occurring. Lokon did erupt on 12 February. Seismicity remained elevated at Lokon and small explosions have been occurred frequently.

On 20 March, the Jakarta Post reported a new eruption at Lokon which spewed a ~2 km m high dark brown and black ash cloud from the Tompaluan crater, easily visible from Manado, the regional capital to the NE, and was heard up to 6 km distance. Farid Ruskanda Bina, head of Mount Lokon and Mount Mahawu observation post at the Bandung Geology Agency's volcanology and geological disaster mitigation center (PVMBG) reported "There was an increase in volcanic tremors which culminated in an eruption" (Antara News). Warno, an official at the observation post, added that the increases in Mount Lokon's volcanic tremors were not very significant. The frequency of the volcano's eruptions has continued to decline from previous eruptions of two to three times a week.

A series of 3 moderately large explosions occurred on 25 March that was followed by minor ash emissions. Mount Lokon erupted again from the Tompaluan crater on 26 March, again with ash plumes rising up to ~2 km above the vent. Residents heard a loud boom after the eruption. Indonesia's National and Local Board for Disaster Management and Volcanology agency warned people not to go within 2.5 km of the volcano; authorities held the situation at Alert Level 3 but, however have not advised residents to evacuate the area. There were no reports of casualties, but three villages in the area, Dalian, Wadena and Walloon were covered in ash from the eruption.

On 2 April, seismicity at Lokon increased. Based on both CVGHM and ground reports, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 3 April an eruption from Lokon Empung produced an ash plume that rose to altitudes of ~3 3.4 km and drifted SW. New explosions occurred on 4 April. Volcanic ash plumes reached 700 m above the crater and were blown to the S. Another explosion occurred on 8 April. A relatively large ash plume rose about 3 km above the crater to an altitude of ~4.5 km and drifted SW. The eruption was heard up to 6 km away. The volcano observatory recorded that the eruption was preceded by a strong increase in seismicity. After the main eruption, the volcano continued to erupt ash. Based on both web-camera views and ground reports, the Darwin VAAC reported that on 11 April an ash plume from Lokon rose to an altitude of ~4.6 km and drifted SW; but the ash plume was not confirmed by satellite imagery.

Another relatively large eruption occurred on 14 April. The explosion produced an ash plume ~4 km high, and strong vibrations were felt up to 5 km from the volcano.

KKVO is monitoring the activity closely using equipment for a volcano hazard mitigation project in Indonesia.

Information Contacts: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 5+7, 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/); The Jakarta Post (URL: http://www.thejakartapost.com/); Jakarta Globe (URL: http://jakartaglobe.id/); Kompas.com (URL: http://www.kompas.com/); Straits Times (URL: http://www.straitstimes.com); ITN News (URL: http://www.itn.co.uk/); Volcano Discovery (URL: https://www.volcanodiscovery.com/); Activolcans, VSI (webcam); Geoforum; Xinhua; NewKerala.


December 2015 (BGVN 40:12) Citation IconCite this Report

Small eruptions and seismic unrest continue in 2014-2015

Frequent activity at Lokon-Empung since early 2011 has typically included small explosions amid seismic unrest. Eruptions from the active Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the peaks of Lokon and Empung, took place during September 2012-September 2013, May 2015, and August-September 2015. The volcano is monitored by the Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG). The Alert Level has been set at 3 (on a 4 level system) since July 2011, and residents and tourists have been warned not to approach the crater within a radius of 2.5 km.

Activity during 2011-2014. A brief explosion on 11 February 2011 was followed by an eruptive period lasting a year, from 26 June 2011 through 1 May 2012. Activity resumed again on 15 September 2012, and was continuing as of mid-April 2013 (BGVN 38:03). Although there were no further reports of explosive activity until September, thermal anomalies were observed on 5 July 2013 (2 pixels) at or near Tompaluan Crater, based on MODIS satellite data analyzed using MODVOLC.

An ash plume rising to an altitude of 1.8 km and drifting N on 9 September 2013 was reported by the Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) based on ground reports from PVMBG. Ash was not detected in satellite images due to meteorological clouds. According to a news article (Jakarta Post), an explosion at 0630 generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km; the explosion was heard 10 km away. Darwin VAAC noted that during the next day, ash plumes rose to an altitude of 2.4 km, although ash was again not identified in satellite images. A spokesperson from the PVMBG told the Jakarta Post that activity declined after 9 September, including the frequency of deep and shallow volcanic earthquakes.

A year later, PVMBG reported that during 8-14 September 2014 observers saw white plumes rising 25-100 m above Tompaluan Crater. On 13 September three explosions from the crater, at 0300, 1146, and 1229, produced thick white plumes that rose at most 500 m above the crater. Seismicity decreased sharply after the 13 September events, but continued to remain high relative to the levels detected previously.

Activity during 2015. According to PVMBG, observers saw white plumes rising 25-50 m above Tompaluan Crater during 6-13 May 2015, although bad weather often prevented observations. Seismicity fluctuated but slightly decreased overall.

An eruption on 20 May 2015 from the crater generated an ash plume that, according to the Darwin VAAC, rose as high as 3 km and drifted NNW (figure 17). The eruption was accompanied by loud "thumping" noises heard at the local observation post. During 21-27 May, thick grayish-white plumes rose as high as 150 m. Bad weather prevented satellite views. Seismicity fluctuated but generally continued to decrease slightly.

Figure (see Caption) Figure 17. Photo of Lokon-Empung erupting on 20 May 2015. The Lokon cone is hidden by the ash plume from Tompaluan Crater; Gunung Empung is to the right. View is approximately NNW from Tomohon City. Courtesy of Piet Hein Pusung.
Figure (see Caption) Figure 18. Photo of Lokon-Empung erupting on 20 May 2015. The ash plume from Tompaluan Crater is rising above Gunung Lokon (left). View is approximately NNW from Tomohon City. Courtesy of Piet Hein Pusung.

PVMBG reported that during 10-17 June 2015, observers at the Lokon Observation Post in Kakaskasen Tomohon (4 km from the crater), saw white plumes rising as high as 450 m above the crater. The number of volcanic earthquakes fluctuated and signals indicating emissions were detected almost daily. During 15-22 July observers saw white plumes rising as high as 75 m above the crater. The number of volcanic earthquakes declined but still remained higher than levels recorded during 25 May-10 July. Signals indicating emissions were occasionally detected.

According to the Darwin VAAC, PVMBG reported that on 30 August an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3 km. Ash was not identified in satellite images. According to a news account (Jakarta Post), ashfall occurred in Manado (15 km N) to North Minahasa (43 km NE). Another news account (Regional kompas.com) reported that thick volcanic ash covered the runways at Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado, delaying some flights.

Thermal anomalies at or near Tompaluan Crater, based on MODIS satellite instruments analyzed using the MODVOLC algorithm, were observed on 24 September 2015 (1 pixel). The MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) system detected six hotspots within 5 km of Lokon-Empung during September 2015, two early in the month and four near the end.

Although inclement weather sometimes obscured views, PVMBG reported that during 28 October-24 November 2015 observers saw white plumes rising as high as 400 m above the crater. Seismicity fluctuated, but the seismic spectral amplitude measurement (SSAM) showed a gradually increasing trend.

Information Contacts: Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG, also known as Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Jalan Diponegoro 5+7, 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/); Hawai'i Institute of Geophysics and Planetology (HIGP) MODVOLC Thermal Alerts System, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology (SOEST), Univ. of Hawai'i, 2525 Correa Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA (URL: http://modis.higp.hawaii.edu/); MIROVA, a collaborative project between the Universities of Turin and Florence, Italy (URL: http://www.mirovaweb.it/); The Jakarta Post (URL: http://www.thejakartapost.com/); Jakarta Globe (URL: http://jakartaglobe.id/); Regional Kompas.com (URL: http://regional.kompas.com/); Piet Hein Pusung (URL: https://twitter.com/PietHeinPusung).

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 30 confirmed Holocene eruptive periods.

2015 Aug 30 - 2015 Sep 28 ± 1 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2015 Aug 30 - 2015 Sep 28 ± 1 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 5 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2015 Aug 30    - - - - Ash Plume According to the Darwin VAAC, PVMBG reported that an ash plume rose from Lokon-Empung to an altitude of 3 km. Ash was not identified in satellite images.
2015 Aug 30    - - - - Ashfall According to a news account (Jakarta Post), ashfall occurred in Manado (15 km N) to North Minahasa (43 km NE). Another news account (Regional kompas.com) reported that thick volcanic ash covered the runways at Sam Ratulangi Airport in Manado, delaying some flights.
2015 Aug 30    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 2
2015 Sep 1
(in or after)
2015 Sep 30
(in or before)
Thermal Anomaly The MIROVA (Middle InfraRed Observation of Volcanic Activity) system detected six hotspots within 5 km of Lokon-Empung during September 2015, two early in the month and four near the end.
2015 Sep 24    - - - - Thermal Anomaly A MODVOLC thermal alert was issued.

2015 May 20 - 2015 May 27 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2015 May 20 - 2015 May 27 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2015 May 20    - - - - Ash Plume Based on ground observations, the Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3 km. PVMBG reported that the eruption at 1520 generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km and drifted NNW.
2015 May 20    - - - - Audible Sounds The eruption was accompanied by loud "thumping" noises heard at the local observation post.
2015 May 20    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 2
2015 May 21 2015 May 27 Ash Plume Thick grayish-white plumes rose as high as 150 m.

2012 Sep 15 - 2013 Sep 10 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2012 Sep 15 - 2013 Sep 10 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 58 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2012 Sep 1
(in or after)
2012 Sep 30
(in or before)
Explosion A news article noted that Lokon-Empung had erupted 41 times in September 2012.
2012 Sep 15    - - - - Ash Plume According to the Darwin VAAC, ground-based observers reported that an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 3 km. Satellite imagery showed an ash plume drifting 185 km SE.
2012 Sep 15    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 2
2012 Sep 21    - - - - Ash Plume According to the Darwin VAAC, ground-based observers reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3 km.
2012 Oct 5    - - - - Explosion A news article noted that Lokon-Empung had erupted three times.
2012 Oct 6    - - - - Ash Plume According to the Darwin VAAC, CVGHM reported that an ash plume from Lokon-Empung rose to an altitude of 3.7 km; the plume altitude was determined by wind data.
2012 Oct 6    - - - - Thermal Anomaly A thermal anomaly was detected in satellite imagery.
2012 Oct 7    - - - - Explosion According to a news article, an eruption at 1405 ejected incandescent tephra as high as 350 m above the crater and generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km.
2012 Oct 7    - - - - Ash Plume According to a news article, an eruption at 1405 ejected incandescent tephra as high as 350 m above the crater and generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km.
2012 Oct 7    - - - - Incandescent ejecta According to a news article, an eruption at 1405 ejected incandescent tephra as high as 350 m above the crater and generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km.
2012 Oct 7    - - - - Audible Sounds Thunderous sounds were heard nearly 6 km away.
2012 Nov 11    - - - - Ash Plume Based on a SIGMET, the Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 1.5 km.
2012 Nov 28    - - - - Explosion According to the Darwin VAAC, CVGHM reported that an eruption produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 4.9 km.
2012 Nov 28    - - - - Ash Plume According to the Darwin VAAC, CVGHM reported that an eruption produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 4.9 km.
2012 Dec 6    - - - - Explosion Based on information from CVGHM and the WAAA MWO (in Ujung Pandang,Indonesia), the Darwin VAAC reported that an eruption produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 3.4 km and drifted S.
2012 Dec 6    - - - - Ash Plume Based on information from CVGHM and the WAAA MWO (in Ujung Pandang,Indonesia), the Darwin VAAC reported that an eruption produced an ash plume that rose to an altitude of 3.4 km and drifted S.
2012 Dec 6    - - - - Ashfall Lokon emitted a billowing ash plume that produced ash that fell mostly on the SE flank.
2012 Dec 10    - - - - Ash Plume A plume rose to an altitude of 4.3 km.
2012 Dec 17    - - - - Ash Plume Based on ground reports from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported ash plumes.
2013 Jan 2 2013 Jan 8 Ash Plume Based on ground reports from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes rose to an altitude of 2.4 km.
2013 Jan 15 2013 Jan 16 Ash Plume Based on reports from CVGHM and ASHTAMs (a special NOTAM for volcanic ash), the Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes rose to altitudes of 3.7-4.5 km.
2013 Jan 31    - - - - Explosion According to news articles, Lokon-Empung erupted twice, producing an ash plume that rose 800 m after the first eruption. Seismicity had increased the day before.
2013 Jan 31    - - - - Ash Plume According to news articles, Lokon-Empung erupted twice, producing an ash plume that rose 800 m after the first eruption.
2013 Feb 2    - - - - Explosion The head of the Lokon observation post reported that nine eruptions had occurred on 2 February.
2013 Feb 3    - - - - Explosion The CVGHM reported that a significant explosion occurred which produced an ash plume that rose to 3-4 km and drifted S and SW.
2013 Feb 3    - - - - Ash Plume Based on a ground report from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 4 km.
2013 Feb 4    - - - - Thermal Anomaly Two MODVOLC thermal alerts were issued.
2013 Feb 9    - - - - Seismicity (volcanic) CVGHM observers at the Kakaskasen Volcano Observatory (KKVO) in North Sulawesi, Indonesia reported increased seismic unrest.
2013 Feb 12    - - - - Explosion Lokon erupted. Seismicity remained elevated and small explosions occurred frequently.
2013 Mar 20    - - - - Explosion According to a news article, an eruption occurred at 0757, producing an ash plume that rose 2 km above the crater.
2013 Mar 20    - - - - Ash Plume According to a news article, an eruption occurred at 0757, producing an ash plume that rose 2 km above the crater. The plume consisted of dark brown and black ash from the Tompaluan crater, and was easily visible from Manado.
2013 Mar 20    - - - - Audible Sounds The explosion was heard up to 6 km from the volcano.
2013 Mar 25    - - - - Explosion A series of 3 moderately large explosions occurred that was followed by minor ash emissions.
2013 Mar 25    - - - - Ash Plume A series of 3 moderately large explosions occurred that was followed by minor ash emissions.
2013 Mar 26    - - - - Explosion Mount Lokon erupted from the Tompaluan crater with ash plumes rising up to about 2 km above the vent.
2013 Mar 26    - - - - Ash Plume Mount Lokon erupted from the Tompaluan crater with ash plumes rising up to about 2 km above the vent.
2013 Mar 26    - - - - Ashfall Three villages in the area, Dalian, Wadena, and Walloon, were covered in ash from the eruption.
2013 Mar 26    - - - - Audible Sounds Residents heard a loud boom after the eruption.
2013 Apr 2    - - - - Seismicity (volcanic) Seismicity increased.
2013 Apr 3    - - - - Explosion Based on both CVGHM and ground reports, the Darwin VAAC reported that an eruption produced an ash plume that rose to altitudes of 3-3.4 km and drifted S and SE.
2013 Apr 3    - - - - Ash Plume Based on both CVGHM and ground reports, the Darwin VAAC reported that an eruption produced an ash plume that rose to altitudes of 3-3.4 km and drifted S and SE.
2013 Apr 4    - - - - Explosion Explosions occurred. Volcanic ash plumes reached 700 m above the crater and were blown to the S.
2013 Apr 4    - - - - Ash Plume Explosions occurred. Volcanic ash plumes reached 700 m above the crater and were blown to the S.
2013 Apr 8    - - - - Seismicity (volcanic) The volcano observatory recorded that the eruption was preceded by a strong increase in seismicity.
2013 Apr 8    - - - - Explosion
2013 Apr 8    - - - - Ash Plume An ash plume rose to an altitude of 4.6 km and drifted SW.
2013 Apr 8    - - - - Ash Plume After the main eruption, the volcano continued to erupt ash.
2013 Apr 8    - - - - Audible Sounds The eruption was heard up to 6 km away.
2013 Apr 11    - - - - Ash Plume Based on both web-camera views and ground reports, the Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 4.6 km and drifted SW.
2013 Apr 14    - - - - Explosion A large eruption occurred. The explosion produced an ash plume about 4 km high, and strong vibrations were felt up to 5 km from the volcano.
2013 Apr 14    - - - - Ash Plume A large eruption occurred. The explosion produced an ash plume about 4 km high, and strong vibrations were felt up to 5 km from the volcano.
2013 Apr 14    - - - - Audible Sounds A large eruption occurred . The explosion produced an ash plume ~4 km high, and strong vibrations were felt up to 5 km from the volcano.
2013 Jul 5    - - - - Thermal Anomaly Two MODVOLC thermal alerts were issued.
2013 Sep 9    - - - - Explosion According to a news article an explosion at 0630 generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km; the explosion was heard 10 km away.
2013 Sep 9    - - - - Explosion Ash plume to 1.8 km altitude
2013 Sep 9    - - - - Ash Plume Based on ground reports from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 1.8 km and drifted N. According to a news article an explosion at 0630 generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km.
2013 Sep 9    - - - - Audible Sounds According to a news article an explosion at 0630 generated an ash plume that rose 1.5 km; the explosion was heard 10 km away.
2013 Sep 10    - - - - Ash Plume The Darwin VAAC noted that ash plumes rose to an altitude of 2.4 km.

2011 Jun 26 - 2012 May 2 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2011 Jun 26 - 2012 May 2 Evidence from Observations: Reported
 Explosions with ash emissions from Tompaluan crater began on 26 June 2011; intermittent ash plumes rose up to 500 m above the crater for the next week. Larger explosions beginning on 11 July produced ash plumes to 3.5 km altitude (2 km high) and incandescent ejecta from the crater that resulted in the evacuation of several thousand people living nearby. After multiple explosions in July, larger events with explosions producing ash plumes and incandescent ejecta were reported in August, October, and December 2011, and February, late April, and early May 2012.

List of 35 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2011 Jun 26    - - - - Phreatic activity A phreatic eruption ejected material that fell around the crater and produced a gray plume that rose 400 m above the crater rim and drifted N.
2011 Jun 26    - - - - Ash Plume A phreatic eruption produced a gray plume that rose 400 m above the crater rim and drifted N.
2011 Jun 26    - - - - Ashfall A phreatic eruption ejected material that fell around the crater.
2011 Jun 28 2011 Jul 10 Ash Plume Gray ash plumes rose 100-500 m above the crater.
2011 Jul 11    - - - - Ash Plume The Darwin VAAC reported that ash plumes detected in satellite imagery rose to an altitude of 1.5 km and drifted NW.
2011 Jul 11 2011 Jul 12 Evacuations According to news articles, close to 1,000 residents were evacuated from the area.
2011 Jul 14 2011 Jul 15 Explosion Three eruptions from Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, ejected lava and ash, and caused forest fires on the W flank.
2011 Jul 14 2011 Jul 15 Ash Plume Three eruptions from Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, ejected lava and ash, and caused forest fires on the W flank. HOPE Worldwide, a non-profit non-governmental organization, issued a report stating that at 2331 on the 14 July Lokon erupted and sent lava, ash, and gases 1.5 km over the summit. "No death is yet to be reported due to the eruption, but there are 4,412 persons displaced in the Tomohon city, just south of Manado city, the capital of North Sulawesi Province." Displaced residents went to schools and a city park.
2011 Jul 14 2011 Jul 15 Incandescent ejecta Three eruptions from Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, ejected lava and ash, and caused forest fires on the W flank.
2011 Jul 14 2011 Jul 15 Evacuations A local mayor noted that 6,000 people were in shelters and one person had died from a heart attack while evacuating. Other articles stated that 5,200 people had evacuated. HOPE Worldwide, a non-profit non-governmental organization, issued a report on 15 July 2011 stating that at 2331 on the 14 July Lokon erupted and sent lava, ash, and gases 1.5 km over the summit. "No death is yet to be reported due to the eruption, but there are 4,412 persons displaced in the Tomohon city, just south of Manado city, the capital of North Sulawesi Province." Displaced residents went to schools and a city park.
2011 Jul 17 2011 Jul 18 Explosion Explosions produced ash plumes that rose 0.6-3.5 km above the crater.
2011 Jul 17 2011 Jul 18 Ash Plume Explosions produced ash plumes that rose 0.6-3.5 km above the crater.
2011 Jul 17 2011 Jul 18 VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 2
2011 Jul 20 2011 Jul 21 Seismicity (volcanic) According to the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), seismicity and visual observations of Tompaluan crater in the saddle between the twin peaks of Lokon and Empung indicated that activity continued to be high.
2011 Jul 20 2011 Jul 21 Explosion According to the Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM) seismicity and visual observations of Tompaluan crater in the saddle between the twin peaks of Lokon and Empung indicated that activity continued to be high.
2011 Aug 28 2011 Aug 29 Explosion Lokon erupted 12 times on 28 August. One explosion on 29 August ejected material 250 m above the crater.
2011 Aug 28 2011 Aug 29 Incandescent ejecta Lokon erupted 12 times on 28 August. One explosion on 29 August ejected material 250 m above the crater.
2011 Oct 10    - - - - Ash Plume CVGHM reported that white and gray plumes rose 100-300 m above Tompaluan crater.
2011 Oct 11    - - - - Ash Plume The Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 2.1 km.
2011 Oct 26    - - - - Ash Plume According to a news article, a gray plume rose 1.2 km above Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, and drifted SW. A second eruption produced a plume that rose 500 m above the crater.
2011 Oct 26    - - - - Incandescent ejecta According to a news article, an explosion sent incandescent material as far as 800 m away from Tompaluan crater.
2011 Oct 26    - - - - Blocks According to a news article an explosion sent incandescent material as far as 800 m away from Tompaluan crater.
2011 Nov 7    - - - - Explosion A small eruption was reported.
2011 Dec 27 2011 Dec 28 Explosion Three explosions from the Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks were recorded by the CVGHM. The Darwin VAAC reported a low-level eruption on 27 December based on media reports that rose to 1.5 km altitude.
2011 Dec 29    - - - - Ash Plume The Darwin VAAC reported that an ash plume rose to an altitude of 3.7 km.
2012 Jan 6    - - - - Ash Plume The Darwin VAAC reported an ash plume that rose to 1.5 km altitude.
2012 Feb 10    - - - - Explosion According to news articles, an explosion from the Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, produced an ash plume that rose as high as 2 km above the crater.
2012 Feb 10 2012 Feb 12 Ash Plume According to news articles, an explosion from the Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, produced an ash plume that rose as high as 2 km above the crater. Based on information from CVGHM, the Darwin VAAC reported ash plumes that rose to altitudes of 3-3.4 km, though clouds prevented the detection of ash in satellite imagery.
2012 Feb 10    - - - - Audible Sounds According to news articles loud "thumping" noises were heard.
2012 Feb 21    - - - - Explosion Explosions from the crater produced ash plumes.
2012 Apr 24    - - - - Audible Sounds An eruption was accompanied by loud "thumping" noises heard at local observation posts; fog prevented views of the crater.
2012 Apr 25    - - - - Blocks Satellite observations showed ash and block deposits from the previous day's eruption scattered to the N and E of Tompaluan crater out to a distance of ~400 m from the crater rim.
2012 May 1    - - - - Ash Plume According to the Darwin VAAC, ash plumes that rose to an altitude of 3.7 km and drifted 75 km N, were detected in satellite imagery and reported by ground-based observers.
2012 May 2    - - - - Explosion The Jakarta Post reported that Lokon-Empung erupted at 1155. This eruption was larger in magnitude than the one on 24-25 April 2012. The eruption was preceded by a number of mild earthquakes that occurred over a span of 2 min. A report noted that "smoke" plumes reached an altitude of 2.5 km.
2012 May 2    - - - - Ash Plume The Jakarta Post reported that Lokon-Empung erupted at 1155. A report noted that "smoke" plumes reached an altitude of 2.5 km.

2011 Feb 22 - 2011 Feb 22 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2011 Feb 22 - 2011 Feb 22 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
2011 Feb 22    - - - - Explosion A phreatic eruption from Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, produced an ash plume that rose 400 m above the crater rim and drifted SE.
2011 Feb 22    - - - - Phreatic activity A phreatic eruption from Tompaluan crater was possibly triggered by high rainfall. It produced an ash plume that rose 400 m.
2011 Feb 22    - - - - Ash Plume A phreatic eruption from Tompaluan crater, in the saddle between the Lokon-Empung peaks, produced an ash plume that rose 400 m above the crater rim and drifted SE.
2011 Feb 22    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index) VEI 1

2003 Sep 12 - 2003 Sep 12 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 3

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2003 Sep 12 - 2003 Sep 12 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 6 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) After.
2003 Sep 12    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2002 Dec 23 - 2003 Apr 1 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2002 Dec 23 - 2003 Apr 1 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 9 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Ash Incandescent
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) After.
2002 Dec 23    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
2003 Feb 8    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2002 Feb 9 - 2002 May 16 (?) ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2002 Feb 9 - 2002 May 16 (?) ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 6 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Ash Incandescent
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
2002 Feb 9    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

2000 May 10 ± 3 days - 2001 Aug 18 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
2000 May 10 ± 3 days - 2001 Aug 18 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 7 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Lava fountains
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
2000 May 10 ± 3 days    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1991 May 17 - 1992 Jan 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 3

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1991 May 17 - 1992 Jan 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 12 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Pyroclastic flow
   - - - -    - - - - Lava flow
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1991 May 17    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1991 Oct 24    - - - - Evacuations
1991 Oct 24    - - - - Fatalities
1991 Oct 25    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1988 Apr 21 - 1988 May 1 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1988 Apr 21 - 1988 May 1 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1988 Apr 21    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1986 Mar 22 - 1987 May 13 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1986 Mar 22 - 1987 May 13 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 9 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined) Before.
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
   - - - -    - - - - Lahar or Mudflow
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1986 Mar 22    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

[ 1984 Jun 5 ± 4 days - 1984 Nov 16 ± 15 days ] Uncertain Eruption

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1984 Jun 5 ± 4 days - 1984 Nov 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Unknown

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity Uncertain
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1984 Jun 5 ± 4 days    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1975 Nov 16 (in or before) ± 15 days - 1980 Jul 2 ± 182 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1975 Nov 16 (in or before) ± 15 days - 1980 Jul 2 ± 182 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 9 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion moderate
   - - - -    - - - - Pyroclastic flow Uncertain
   - - - -    - - - - Lava dome
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Audible Sounds
   - - - -    - - - - Earthquakes (undefined)
1975 Nov
(in or before)
   - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1977 Mar 28    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1978 Jan    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1973 Sep 15 - 1974 Dec 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1973 Sep 15 - 1974 Dec 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1973 Sep 15    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1971 May 11 - 1971 Oct 26 ± 5 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1971 May 11 - 1971 Oct 26 ± 5 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 5 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Lava dome
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Audible Sounds
1971 May 11    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1969 Nov 27 - 1970 Dec 26 ± 5 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1969 Nov 27 - 1970 Dec 26 ± 5 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 11 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Eruption cloud
   - - - -    - - - - Pyroclastic flow
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Mud
   - - - -    - - - - Lahar or Mudflow
   - - - -    - - - - Fauna Kill Aquatic.
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1969 Nov 27    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1966 Sep 24 - 1966 Sep 30 (?) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1966 Sep 24 - 1966 Sep 30 (?) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1966 Sep 24    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1965 Jul 10 - 1965 Jul 10 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1965 Jul 10 - 1965 Jul 10 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion weak or small
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1965 Jul 10    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1963 Dec 17 - 1964 Apr 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1963 Dec 17 - 1964 Apr 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Eruption cloud
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1963 Dec 17    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1962 Apr 16 ± 15 days - 1962 Nov 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1962 Apr 16 ± 15 days - 1962 Nov 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
1962 Apr    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1961 May 19 - 1961 Dec 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1961 May 19 - 1961 Dec 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1961 May 19    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1958 Feb 19 - 1959 Dec 23 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1958 Feb 19 - 1959 Dec 23 Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 12 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Eruption cloud
   - - - -    - - - - Pyroclastic flow
   - - - -    - - - - Lava dome
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Lapilli
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Incandescence Event was "Glow"
   - - - -    - - - - Audible Sounds
   - - - -    - - - - Lightning
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1958 Feb 19    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1951 Jul 2 - 1953 Mar 16 ± 15 days Confirmed Eruption VEI: 3

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1951 Jul 2 - 1953 Mar 16 ± 15 days Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 13 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (volcanic)
   - - - -    - - - - Seismicity (tremor)
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Lava dome
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
   - - - -    - - - - Bombs
   - - - -    - - - - Blocks
   - - - -    - - - - Flames
   - - - -    - - - - Incandescence Event was "Glow"
   - - - -    - - - - Lightning
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1951 Jul 2    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
1952 Jun 26    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1949 Sep 14 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 1

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1949 Sep 14 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
1949 Sep 14    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1942 Sep 3 Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1942 Sep 3 - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Ash
1942 Sep 3    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1930 Aug Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1930 Aug - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Phreatic activity
1930 Aug    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1893 Mar 29 - 1894 Aug 14 (in or after) Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1893 Mar 29 - 1894 Aug 14 (in or after) Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1893 Mar 29    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1829 Mar Confirmed Eruption VEI: 2

Episode 1 | Eruption Tompaluan
1829 Mar - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 3 Events for Episode 1 at Tompaluan

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Crater Summit.
1829 Mar    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1775 ± 25 years Confirmed Eruption VEI: 3

Episode 1 | Eruption Empung
1775 ± 25 years - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 4 Events for Episode 1 at Empung

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
   - - - -    - - - - Property Damage
1750
(?)
   - - - - Fatalities
1775 ± 25 years    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)

1375 ± 25 years Confirmed Eruption VEI: 3

Episode 1 | Eruption Empung
1375 ± 25 years - Unknown Evidence from Observations: Reported

List of 2 Events for Episode 1 at Empung

Start Date End Date Event Type Event Remarks
   - - - -    - - - - Explosion
1375 ± 25 years    - - - - VEI (Explosivity Index)
Deformation History

There is no Deformation History data available for Lokon-Empung.

Emission History

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


Emissions during 1991 Oct 25 - 1991 Oct 25 [20 kt SO2 at 12 km altitude]

Start Date: 1991 Oct 25 Stop Date: 1991 Oct 25 Method: Satellite (Nimbus-7 TOMS)
SO2 Altitude Min: 12 km SO2 Altitude Max: 12 km Total SO2 Mass: 20 kt

Data Details

Date Start Date End Assumed SO2 Altitude SO2 Algorithm SO2 Mass
19911025 11.6 20.000
Photo Gallery

Incandescence is visible in cracks in the surface of a small lava dome in Tompuluan crater of Lokon-Empung volcano in June 1976. This was the second of two small lava domes emplaced during an eruption that began in November 1975, and lasted, with intermittent ash eruptions, until 1980.

Copyrighted photo by Katia and Maurice Krafft, 1976.
Gunung Empung volcano, seen here from the SW near the rim of Tompaluan crater, is lower than its twin volcano, Gunung Lokon. In constrast to Lokon volcano, which lacks a summit crater, Empung volcano contains a 400-m-wide, 150-m-deep crater. Empung was active during the 14th and 18th centuries, but all eruptions since have occurred from Tompaluan crater, which occupies a saddle between Lokon and Empung.

Photo by A.D. Wirasaputra, 1973 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
Steam rises from fumaroles on the wall of Tompaluan crater in May 1985 during a quiescent period at the frequently active volcano. The crater, which has been the source of most historical eruptions from Lokon-Empung volcano, lies in a saddle between the two peaks. The floor of the 250 x 150 m wide crater sometimes contains a small lake.

Photo by Ruska Hadian, 1985 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
An eruption plume, viewed from the east, rises from Tompaluan crater in the saddle between Lokon (left) and Empung (right) volcanoes on July 15, 1986. Intermittent explosive eruptions took place from March 22, 1986, until May 13, 1987 from Lokon-Empung, one of the most active volcanoes of Sulawesi Island.

Photo by Ruska Hadian, 1986 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
The twin volcanoes Lokon (on the left) and Empung (on the right) rise above Tondano Plain. Steam rises from Tompaluan, a double crater between the two peaks. The higher peak, 1580-m-high Lokon, has a flat, craterless summit, whereas Empung, which was active prior to 1800, has a 400-m-wide summit crater. All eruptions of Lokon-Empung since 1826 have originated from Tompaluan crater between the two peaks.

Photo by Ruska Hadian, 1986 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
A small ash eruption from a vent at the bottom of Tompaluan crater on Lokon-Empung volcano is seen from the crater rim on July 20, 1986. The eruption, which began in March, lasted until May of the following year.

Photo by Ruska Hadian, 1986 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
A small ash plume, viewed here from the east on the slopes of Mahawu volcano, rises on September 15, 1986 above Tompaluan crater in the saddle between Lokon and Empung volcanoes. This was one of many explosions that occurred at Lokon-Empung during an eruption between March 1986 and May 1987. The peak behind the eruption plume is Gunung Tetawiran, part of a volcanic ridge that extends to the NW from Lokon volcano.

Photo by Ruska Hadian, 1986 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
A large eruption plume plume rises above Tompaluan crater in the saddle between Lokon (left) and Empung volcanoes on May 13, 1987, the final day of a period of intermittent eruptions that began in March 1986. The initial explosions on March 22 and 24 and May 10 ejected the crater lake water, and lahars occurred during the latter two days. Ashfall during the eruption damaged house roofs and rice fields.

Photo by S.R. Wittiri, 1987 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
The twin volcanoes Lokon and Empung rise 800 m above the plain of Tondano. The more prominent Lokon volcano, seen here from the Kakaskasen Volcano Observatory on the SE, is higher than Empung volcano, part of which is visible at the right. Most historical eruptions from Lokon-Empung, one of the most active volcanoes on Sulawesi Island, have originated from Tompaluan crater, located at the right in the saddle between the two peaks.

Photo by S.R. Wittiri, 1990 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
An ash column rises above Tompaluan crater between Lokon and Empung volcanoes in November 1991. Explosive eruptions began on 17 May 1991, continuing at a rate of 7-16 a week. About 10,000 people evacuated following a 25 October explosion that produced 0.015 cu km tephra and was accompanied by a pyroclastic flow that traveled 1.5 km to the east. The number of explosions decreased in November and December, and the eruption ended in January. A small lava plug appeared in the crater after the main eruption.

Photo by Syamsul Rizal, 1991 (Volcanological Survey of Indonesia).
This sketch from a photo shows an aerial view of the Lokon-Empung volcanic complex from the north on August 23, 1982. The 400-m-wide, 150-m-deep crater of Empung volcano, which last erupted during the 18th century, is at the lower left. Almost all historical eruptions from Lokon-Empung have originated from Tompaluan crater, located in the saddle between Lokon and Empung. The word "air" in the bottom of the crater means water in Indonesian; a shallow lake periodically appears on the floor of the crater.

Photo courtesy of Volcanological Survey of Indonesia.
Intermittent eruptive activity at Lokon-Empung began on February 17, 1958 and lasted until December 23, 1959. Ash and incandescent material was frequently ejected, affecting nearby villages. On May 3, 1958, the large vertical eruption column and basal pyroclastic-surge cloud seen in this photo was ejected along with fire fountains 100 m from the side of the crater. An eruption the following day damaged farm crops. On May 17 a lava plug was observed in the crater. Frequent small-to-moderate ash eruptions continued through 1959.

Photo courtesy of Volcanological Survey of Indonesia, 1958.
An eruption plume rises from Tompaluan crater above the coastal city of Manado on June 22, 1959. This was part of intermittent eruptive activity from Lokon-Empung volcano that began on February 17, 1958 and lasted until December 23, 1959. Ash and incandescent material was frequently ejected, affecting nearby villages. The peak at the right is Gunung Tatawiran, a volcanic cone immediately to the west of the historically active Lokon-Empung volcanic complex.

Photo courtesy of Volcanological Survey of Indonesia, 1959.
The twin volcanoes Lokon and Empung rise above the towns of Kakaskasen and Kinilow as viewed from the flanks of Mahawu volcano. The more prominent Lokon volcano (left), is higher than Empung volcano (right) and lacks a summit crater. Most historical eruptions from Lokon-Empung, one of the most active volcanoes on Sulawesi Island, have originated from Tompaluan crater, which can be seen surrounded by fresh ash deposits in the saddle between the two peaks. Gunung Tetawiran rises beyond the saddle.

Photo by Agus Solihin, 1998 (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

There are no samples for Lokon-Empung in the Smithsonian's NMNH Department of Mineral Sciences Rock and Ore collection.

External Sites