Mount Ibu Eruptions Impact Evacuations and Tourism

Mount Ibu, an active volcano on Indonesia's Halmahera Island, has erupted over 1,000 times in January 2025, prompting authorities to raise the alert level to its highest and commence evacuations for 3,000 villagers from six nearby communities. The eruptions have sent ash plumes up to four kilometers into the sky, posing environmental and health risks, especially with thick ash falling southwest of the volcano. Despite evacuation efforts, only around 517 people have been relocated due to villagers' reliance on current harvests and familiarity with the volcano's frequent activity. The ongoing volcanic activity has also impacted tourism, with hiking activities suspended and safety warnings issued for residents and tourists to stay clear of a five- to six-kilometer exclusion zone. Indonesian authorities continue to focus on public safety, emphasizing the need for timely evacuations and adherence to safety protocols amidst this heightened volcanic activity.