Search and evacuation efforts are ongoing for three hikers caught in the eruption of Mount Dukono in North Halmahera, North Maluku. A joint SAR team is currently navigating extreme terrain and high volcanic activity to reach two foreign nationals and one Indonesian citizen.
Volcanic Activity and Eruption Scale
The eruption began on the morning of Friday, May 8, 2026. According to the PVMBG, the initial eruption occurred at 07:41 WIT, sending a thick column of white, gray, and black ash approximately 10,000 meters above the summit toward the north.
Volcanic activity persisted into Saturday, May 9, 2026. The Dukono Volcano Observation Post (PGA) recorded multiple eruptions from the early hours through midday, with ash columns ranging between 900 and 3,000 meters above the peak.
High-Risk Rescue Operations
Rescue teams face significant danger as the two foreign nationals are believed to be located only 20 to 30 meters from the main crater rim. This proximity makes the area extremely hazardous for personnel.
Abdul Muhari, Head of the BNPB Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Center, stated that extreme terrain and rising volcanic activity have hindered immediate evacuation. He emphasized that SAR personnel must move with extreme caution and follow the recommendations of the PGA Dukono.
Operations were briefly suspended on the first day after glowing lava was projected approximately 1.5 kilometers from the crater summit, forcing the team to retreat to Post 5. Searching resumed Friday evening with teams divided into two groups to comb climbing paths and nearby river flow areas.
To mitigate risks, the joint team is utilizing drones to monitor conditions from the air while ground teams navigate the fluctuating intensity of the eruption.
Diplomatic Coordination and Safety Warnings
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) is coordinating directly with the Singapore Embassy in Jakarta regarding the two Singaporean nationals involved. Yoshi Iskandar, Head of the Sub-directorate of Consular Services at Kemlu, confirmed that official notification has been provided to the embassy regarding the evacuation process.
While 17 hikers were safely evacuated, authorities have reiterated that the public and tourists are strictly prohibited from entering the disaster-prone zone within a four-kilometer radius of the active crater.
The BNPB has urged all visitors and residents to adhere to official government and PVMBG recommendations to avoid further risks while volcanic activity remains high.
Future Outlook
The success of the remaining evacuations may depend on the stability of the volcano’s activity. If eruptions continue to fluctuate, the SAR team could be forced to adjust their strategies or wait for specific windows of safety recommended by the PGA Dukono.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Mount Dukono eruption occur?
The eruption began on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 07:41 WIT.
Who are the victims currently being sought?
The search and evacuation process involves two foreign nationals (identified as Singaporeans) and one Indonesian citizen.
Was climbing permitted on the mountain at the time of the incident?
No, climbing activities had been closed by the North Halmahera Regency government since April 17, 2026.
Do you believe stricter enforcement of exclusion zones is necessary in high-risk volcanic regions?
