MERAPI central Java, Indonesia 07.54°S, 110.44°E; summit elev. 2,911 m; All times are local (= UTC + 7 hours) Reports from 2000: | November | December | Reports from 2001: | January | February | March | April | May | July | August | September | October | November | December | Reports from 2002: | January | February | March | April | May-June | July | August | September | Reports from 2005: | July | Reports from 2006: | March | April | May | Merapi Eruption History Information from the SI/USGS Global Volcanism Program -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15-21 November 2000 The VSI reported that during the week small explosions produced ash plumes that rose up to 430 m above Merapi's summit. High rains during 7 to 13 November caused landslides to occur in the upstream portion of Boyong river, Kaliurang. The river is on the S flank of Merapi and extends ~28 km map distance from the summit. The landslides killed one person and more landslides or lahars are expected during the current rainy season. The volcano is at Alert Level 2 (ranging from 1 to 4). Source: VSI -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29 November- 5 December 2000 During 21-27 November small explosions occurred at Merapi, with the largest producing an ash plume that rose up to 800 m above the summit. Seismicity was high and dominated by multi-phase earthquakes. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (ranging from 1 to 4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10-16 January 2001 The VSI report for 9-15 January noted that activity increased at Merapi, prompting the hazard status to be raised to Alert Level 3 at 0600 on 10 January. Observers frequently noted a weak white plume that rose 500 m above the summit. Glowing lava avalanches continued into the upstream areas of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers to a runout distance of 2,000 m. On 14 January there were 29 pyroclastic-flow events, which filled the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers out to a maximum distance of ~4,000 m. During this week there were continuous glowing lava avalanches and pyroclastic flows at intervals of 30-60 minutes. The Associated Press reported on 11 January that authorities had ordered people living around the mountain to be on high alert and prepare to leave at short notice. Sources: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia, Associated Press -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17-23 January 2001 The VSI reported that during 16-22 January visual and instrumental monitoring revealed a continued increase of volcanic activity at Merapi. Activity consisted of several pyroclastic flows, small ash eruptions, glowing lava flows, lava avalanches, and an increase in seismicity, especially in avalanche and multi-phase earthquakes. More than 20 pyroclastic flows per day traveled continuously to the Sat (upstream of River Putih), Senowo, and Bebeng rivers. The number of glowing lava avalanches also increased since last reported, with more than 150 events per day observed. The avalanches traveled down to the Sat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers extending as far as 3,500 m. The new lava dome, "lava dome 2001," grew at the volcano's summit over the preexisting "lava dome 1998." The Darwin VAAC reported that an ash cloud that was not visible on satellite imagery reached 500 m above the summit on 19 January. The VSI reported that during the report period ash fell in the towns of Babadan, Ngepos, and Kaliurang. An average of 95 tons/day of SO2 was measured. The volcano remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Sources: VSI, Darwin VAAC, Associated Press -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24-30 January 2001 An Associated Press article from 25 January reported that ash mixed with rain fell on the village of Deres on the flanks of the volcano. Activity reportedly increased slightly on 25 January. Source: Associated Press -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31 January- 6 February 2001 The VSI reported that activity continued to increase during 23 January-1 February. At 0000 on 27 January an eruption produced continuous pyroclastic flows and molten lava avalanches that lasted as long as 2 hours. The eruption also produced a thick ash plume that rose 2 km above the volcano's summit and was accompanied by a strong sulfurous smell. On 28 January, "lava dome 2001" partially collapsed, resulting in pyroclastic flows and molten lava avalanches that occurred at 2-5 minute intervals. The avalanche and pyroclastic-flow material traveled down the Sat and Bebeng rivers to the SW, and Senowo River to the W. The maximum runout distance of 4.5 km occurred in the Sat River. Ash fell in 5 districts within a 15-20 km radius around the volcano; Dukun, Srumbung, Salam, Ngluwar, and Muntilan. On 31 January, pyroclastic flows continuously entered the Sat River, and to a lesser extent the Senowo and Bebeng rivers. The maximum runout distance was ~3.5 km. Again, ash fell on the towns within a ~15 km radius around the volcano. Visual observations and photographic analysis revealed that the dome became higher and larger than it was during the previous report period, and that there was a new active point at the summit that may have been a fumarole or a hot spot. The volcano remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Sources: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia, Associated Press, Agence France-Presse -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7-13 February 2001 Intense and dangerous volcanic activity continued at Merapi with hot lava avalanches, near-continuous pyroclastic flows, and an eruption on 10 February that deposited ash on many cities out to 60 km E of the volcano. During 30 January to 5 February, continuous hot lava avalanches and pyroclastic flows traveled down the SW flank of the volcano along the Sat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers to a maximum runout distance of ~4.5 km. Lava avalanches also traveled down the Lamat River, a drainage that avalanches had not previously traveled down during the current period of volcanic activity. Approximately 25 pyroclastic flows occurred daily. Ash associated with the pyroclastic flows fell around Merapi. During 0430 to 0630 on 3 February heavy rain mixed with ash and produced minor lahars. On 6 February the dome was reported as being 1 million cubic meters in volume and growing at 45 cubic meters per day. Pyroclastic-flow activity began at 2100 on 9 February and lasted up to 1 hour. At 0200 on 10 February, a medium-sized pyroclastic flow lasted for ~30 minutes. At 0330 the same day "lava dome 1998," which was under the new lava dome ("lava dome 2001"), partially collapsed. The collapse triggered a large and continuous pyroclastic flow that lasted as long as 2.5 hours. The pyroclastic flow traveled up to 7 km SW of the summit towards the Sat River, and 4.5 WSW to the Lamat River. The resultant ash cloud rose up to 5-8 km above the summit, spread ~60 km towards the E, and deposited ash on the towns of Klaten, Solo, Sukoharjo, and Boyolali. The greatest ash thickness was ~1 cm, reported within a 5 km radius around the volcano. At 0530 the Alert Level at the volcano was raised from 3 to 4, the highest level. News articles reported that ~12,000 residents near the volcano were evacuated on 10 February, though many people returned to their property the next day despite the evacuation order. By 11 February, lava dome 2001 was estimated to be 1.4 million cubic meters in volume and unstable, especially after the 10 February collapse of "lava dome 1998." Sources: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia, Darwin VAAC, Australian Broadcasting Company, Associated Press -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14-20 February 2001 VSI reported that after the large 10 February eruption volcanic activity decreased in intensity. Lava avalanches and pyroclastic flows continued, but were smaller than they were the previous week. During 10 to 13 February pyroclastic flows entered the Sat, Lamat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers to a maximum runout distance of 2-3 km, in comparison to ~4.5 km the previous week. After 13 February lava avalanches and pyroclastic flows traveled 1.5-2.5 km to the WSW and lasted 1-2 hours. According to the VSI, high temperatures around Merapi indicate that magma is near the surface. The W and S sides of "lava dome 2001" grew and covered "lava dome 1997" to the S. Several fumaroles appeared to mark a fracture along the area where the 10 February eruption occurred. Fractures formed in a similar matter prior to the November 1994 eruption. The volcano remained at Alert Level 4, the highest level. Sources: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia, Darwin VAAC -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21-27 February 2001 Based on reports from the VSI, the Darwin VAAC stated that during 15-21 February volcanic activity decreased at Merapi. According to the Meteorological and Geophysical Agency of Indonesia, during 11-18 February daily ash emissions rose up to ~150 m above the summit. The volcano remained at Alert Level 4, the highest level. Source: Darwin VAAC -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28 February- 6 March 2001 Based on reports from the VSI, the Darwin VAAC stated that the Alert Level at Merapi was downgraded on 25 February from 4, the highest level, to 3. Source: Darwin VAAC -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7-13 March 2001 Visual and instrumental monitoring conducted by VSI personnel revealed that volcanic activity at Merapi had decreased; therefore on 7 March the Alert Level was reduced from 3 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4). During 27 February- 5 March, volcanic activity was dominated by an average of 100 lava avalanches per day. The avalanche material traveled to the SW, entering the Sat and Senowo rivers with runout distances of 2.3-2.5 km. On 6 March a pyroclastic flow deposited material up to 1.5 km down the Sat River. Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14-20 March 2001 Visual and instrumental monitoring by VSI personnel revealed that volcanic activity continued at Merapi. Hot lava avalanches continued to enter the Sat, Senowo, Bebeng, and Lamat rivers, with a maximum runout distance of 2.5 km in the Sat River. Pyroclastic flows traveled up to 2.75 km down the Sat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers. Superficial earthquakes dominated the seismicity, though fewer occurred than in the previous week. Observations on 10 March revealed that high-pressure fumaroles appeared on most of the dome's surface. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21-27 March 2001 Visual and instrumental monitoring by VSI personnel through 18 March revealed that volcanic activity continued at Merapi. Hot lava avalanches continued to enter the Sat, Senowo, Bebeng, and Lamat rivers, with a maximum runout distance of 3 km in the Sat River. Pyroclastic flows traveled up to 1 km down the Sat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers. Superficial earthquakes dominated the seismicity, though the number and amplitude decreased from the previous week. Observations during a summit visit on 17 March revealed that high-pressure fumaroles remained on most of the dome's surface. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11-17 April 2001 Visual and instrumental monitoring by VSI personnel during 2-9 April revealed that volcanic activity continued at Merapi. Lava avalanches continued to enter upstream areas of the Sat, Senowo, Lamat, and Bebeng rivers, with a maximum runout distance of 2.5 km in the Sat River. An observer reported that ten pyroclastic flows traveled down the Sat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers, reaching as far as 2.3 km in the Sat River. Fumaroles emitted steam and gas up to 950 m above the volcano's summit. Both the number and amplitude of earthquakes was high, but less than previously recorded. Seismic activity was dominated by avalanche earthquakes. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18-24 April 2001 VSI reported that during 9-15 April lava avalanches continued to fill the upstream areas of the Sat, Senowo, Lamat, and Bebeng rivers, with a maximum runout distance of 2 km in the Sat River. In addition, eleven pyroclastic flows entered the Sat and Lamat rivers, reaching as far as 3 km. Avalanche earthquakes continued to dominate the seismicity, but their amplitude and frequency decreased in comparison to the previous week. An observer reported that on 13 April a small amount of ash fell around the Babadan Post Observatory ~7 km W of the volcano. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25 April- 1 May 2001 During 16-23 April lava avalanches continued to flow down the Sat, Senowo, Lamat, and Bebeng rivers, with a maximum runout distance of 2 km. Fumaroles emitted gas that rose up to 500 m above the summit. Seismic activity continued to be dominated by avalanche earthquakes. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2-8 May 2001 Activity at Merapi increased during 23-29 April, with reports of several medium-sized pyroclastic flows. Four pyroclastic flows were observed traveling into the upper reaches of the Sat, Senowo, Lamat, and Bebeng rivers, with a maximum runout distance of 1.8 km in the Sat River. Lava avalanches traveled up to 2.5 km down the Sat River. Superficial earthquakes continued to dominate the seismicity. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11-17 July 2001 During 2-8 July low-pressure emissions from fumaroles rose 700 m above the volcano. During the same interval lava avalanches traveled SW to a maximum distance of 2.5 km into the upper reaches of the Sat, Senowo, and Lamat rivers. The volcano was at Alert Level 2. Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18-25 July 2001 During 9-15 July volcanic activity at Merapi was similar to the previous week. A total of 52 lava avalanches traveled SW to a maximum distance of 2.5 km down the Sat, Senowo, and Lamat rivers. Emissions from low-pressure fumaroles rose to 755 m above the summit. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22-28 August 2001 During 30 July-12 August lava avalanches traveled towards the SW, extending a maximum distance of 2.8 km down the Sat, Senowo, Lamat, and Bebeng Rivers. Seismic activity was dominated by avalanche earthquakes. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29 August- 4 September 2001 During 13-26 August approximately 380 lava avalanches were observed travelling SW, extending a maximum distance of 2.8 km mainly down the Sat and Lamat rivers, and to a lesser extent towards the Senowo and Bebeng rivers. Seismic activity consisted primarily of avalanche earthquakes, as it had for the previous 2 weeks. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19-25 September 2001 According to VSI, during 10-16 September volcanic activity at Merapi decreased in comparison to the previous week. Incandescent lava avalanches continued to travel SW as far as 2.5 km to reach the upstream portions of the Lamat and Senowo rivers. Seismographs recorded 588 lava-avalanche events during the report period. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26 September- 2 October 2001 During 17-30 September incandescent lava avalanches traveled SW primarily down the Lamat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers to a maximum run-out distance of 2.5 km. During 17-23 September 51 lava avalanches were observed. Temperatures at Gendol Crater increased from 590-595 ºC the previous week to 602-617 ºC during 17-23 September and to 598-618 ºC during 24-30 September. Avalanche earthquakes, which dominated the seismicity, increased in comparison to the previous week. Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3-9 October 2001 During 1-7 October 59 incandescent lava avalanches were observed travelling SW. The avalanches predominately traveled to the upstream portions of the Sat River, and to a lesser extent down the Lamat and Senowo rivers to a maximum run-out distance of 2.5 km. Seismicity was dominated by approximately the same number and intensity of avalanche earthquakes as the previous week. An average of 80 tons per day of SO2 was measured. The Alert Level remained at 2. Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17-23 October 2001 During 8-14 October, VSI personnel observed 53 incandescent lava avalanches traveling SW predominately to the upstream portion of the Sat River, and to a lesser extent to the Lamat and Senow rivers to a maximum run-out distance of ~2 km. On 8 October at 1729 a minor pyroclastic flow traveled ~2 km down the Sat River. Seismicity was dominated by 692 lava avalanche events. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24-30 October 2001 During 15-21 October, VSI personnel observed 103 incandescent lava avalanches traveling SW predominately to the upstream portion of the Sat River, and to a lesser extent to the Lamat and Senow rivers. The maximum run-out distance was 2.75 km. Seismic activity was dominated by avalanche earthquakes similar in magnitude and frequency to earthquakes the previous week. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31 October- 6 November 2001 During 22-28 October, VSI personnel observed 121 incandescent lava avalanches traveling SW predominately to the upstream portion of the Sat River, and to a lesser extent to the Lamat and Senow rivers. The maximum run-out distance was 2.75 km. On 24 October four minor pyroclastic flows were observed travelling a maximum distance of 2 km to the upstream portions of the Sat and Senowo rivers. Seismicity was dominated by avalanche earthquakes similar in magnitude and frequency to earthquakes the previous week. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14-20 November 2001 During 5-18 November VSI personnel observed 192 incandescent lava avalanches traveling SW, predominately to the upstream portion of the Sat River, and to a lesser extent to the Lamat and Senowo rivers. The maximum run-out distance was 3 km. During the report period, seismicity was dominated by avalanche earthquakes. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28 November- 4 December 2001 During 19 November- 2 December VSI personnel observed 90 incandescent lava avalanches traveling SW, predominately to the upstream portion of the Sat River, and to a lesser extent to the Lamat and Senowo rivers. The maximum run-out distance was 2.5 km. During the report period, seismicity was dominated by avalanche earthquakes that were similar in frequency and magnitude to those of the previous week. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26 December 2001 - 1 January 2002 Visual observations during 17-20 December revealed that 109 lava avalanches travelled predominately toward the upstream portion of the Sat River, and to a lesser extent to the Lamat and Senowo rivers. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.5 km. A pyroclastic flow on 18 December travelled ~1 km to the upstream portion of the Bebeng River. During the report period, seismicity was dominated by avalanche earthquakes that were similar in frequency and magnitude to those of previous weeks. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9-15 January 2002 During 7-13 January lava avalanches continued to travel down the flanks of Merapi, predominately SW toward the upstream portions of the Sat and Bebeng rivers and partly WSW to the Lamat and Senowo rivers. The maximum run-out distance was about 2.5 km. On 7 January a small pyroclastic flow traveled ~2 km to the upstream portion of Bebeng River. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16-22 January 2002 During 14-20 January lava avalanches continued to travel down the flanks of Merapi, predominately SW toward the upstream portions of Sat and Bebeng rivers, and partly WSW to the Lamat and Senowo rivers. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.75 km. On 17 January, five small pyroclastic flows traveled 1.2 km to the upstream portions of the Sat and Bebeng rivers. Seismicity increased compared to the previous week and was dominated by 853 lava avalanches. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30 January-5 February 2002 During 21-27 January, 979 lava avalanches traveled down Merapi's flanks, predominately SW toward the upstream portions of the Sat and Bebeng rivers, and partly WSW to the Lamat and Senowo rivers. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.75 km. Several small pyroclastic flows travelled up to ~1.5 km to the upstream portions of the Sat and Bebeng rivers; two on the 23rd, one on the 24th, and two on the 25th. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6-12 February 2002 During 28 January-3 February 194 lava avalanches were observed traveling down Merapi's flanks, predominately SW toward the upstream portions of the Sat and Bebeng rivers, and partly WSW to the Lamat and Senowo rivers. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.7 km. There were no major observed changes in seismicity; 855 lava avalanche signals dominated the seismicity. The volcano remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13-19 February 2002 During 11-17 February there were 65 incandescent lava avalanches observed traveling down Merapi's flanks, predominately WSW to the upstream portions of Lamat and Senowo rivers and partly SW toward the Sat and Bebeng rivers. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.5 km. During the report period, six minor pyroclastic flows travelled up to 2.5 km to the upstream portions of the Lamat and Senowo rivers. According to news reports, Volcanology Development and Investigation Agency staff stated that intense rain during the current rainy season could cause landslides around the volcano's crater. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Sources: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia, The Jakarta Post 2/14, The Jakarta Post 2/15 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20-26 February 2002 During 18-24 February there were 67 incandescent lava avalanches observed traveling down Merapi's flanks, predominately WSW to the upstream portions of the Lamat and Senowo rivers and partly SW toward the Sat and Bebeng rivers. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.2 km. One minor pyroclastic flow was observed; it traveled 2.2 km down the Senowo River. Seismicity was dominated by avalanche earthquakes (607), which slightly increased in comparison to the previous week (600). Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27 February-5 March 2002 During 25 February-3 March 88 incandescent lava avalanches were observed traveling down Merapi's flanks, predominately SW to the upstream portions of the Lamat, Sat, and Senowo rivers and partly in a more southerly direction towards Bebeng River. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.5 km. Four minor pyroclastic flows were observed during the report period; three occurred on 25 February and one on 3 March. The flows travelled SSW as far as 1 km to the upstream portion of the Bebeng River. Seismicity at the volcano was similar to the previous week. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20-26 March 2002 During 11-17 March, 69 incandescent lava avalanches were observed traveling down Merapi's flanks, predominately SW to the upstream portions of the Lamat, Sat, and Senowo rivers and partly in a more southerly direction towards Bebeng River. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.5 km. No pyroclastic flows occurred during the report period. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27 March-2 April 2002 During 18-24 March, several incandescent lava avalanches were observed traveling down Merapi's flanks, predominately SW to the upstream portions of the Lamat, Sat, and Senowo rivers and partly in a more southerly direction towards Bebeng River. The maximum run-out distance was ~2.5 km. No pyroclastic flows occurred during the report period. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24-30 April 2002 During 15-21 April, several incandescent lava avalanches were observed traveling down Merapi's flanks, predominately SW to the upstream portions of the Lamat, Sat, and Senowo rivers, reaching a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Two minor pyroclastic flows traveled up to 1.8 km on 14 April. Seismicity decreased in comparison to the previous week, SO2 emission rates were average, and the lava dome showed no signs of deformation. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 29 May-4 June 2002 During 22 April-26 May incandescent lava avalanches flowed down Merapi's flanks, predominately SW to the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers. They reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.75 km. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5-11 June 2002 During 27 May-2 June, seismicity generally decreased at Merapi in comparison to the previous week. Incandescent lava avalanches flowed predominately down Merapi's SW flank to the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers to a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12-18 June 2002 VSI reported that activity at Merapi was generally decreasing. During 3-9 June, incandescent lava avalanches flowed predominately down Merapi's SW flank to the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers to a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19-25 June 2002 During 10-16 June, incandescent lava avalanches flowed predominately down Merapi's SW flank to the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers to a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Seismicity decreased in comparison to the previous week. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26 June-2 July 2002 During 17-23 June, observers noted 65 incandescent lava avalanches flowing predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Seismicity decreased in comparison to the previous week. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3-9 July 2002 During 24-30 June, observers noted 68 incandescent lava avalanches flowing predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Seismicity appeared to decrease in comparison to the previous week and no low-frequency earthquakes were recorded. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10-16 July 2002 During 1-7 July, observers noted 60 incandescent lava avalanches traveling predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of Sat, Lamat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.6 km. On 2 July two pyroclastic flows traveled toward the upstream portion of Sat River, reaching a maximum run-out distance of 0.5 km. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17-23 July 2002 During 8-14 July, incandescent lava avalanches traveled predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of Sat, Lamat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Seismicity was dominated by signals from 180 lava avalanches. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24-30 July 2002 During 15-21 July, incandescent lava avalanches traveled predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Seismicity was dominated by signals from 201 lava avalanches. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 31 July-6 August 2002 During 29 July-4 August, incandescent lava avalanches traveled predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, Senowo, and Bebeng rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.6 km. A thin white plume rose ~400 m above the summit. Seismicity was dominated by signals from 237 lava avalanches. No pyroclastic flows were reported. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21-27 August 2002 During 5-18 August, incandescent lava avalanches traveled predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28 August-3 September 2002 During 19-25 August, observers saw 16 incandescent lava avalanches travel predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Seismicity was dominated by 187 lava avalanches. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4-10 September 2002 During 26 August-1 September, observers saw incandescent lava avalanches travel predominately down Merapi's SW flank into the upstream portions of the Sat, Lamat, and Senowo rivers. The avalanches reached a maximum run-out distance of ~2.5 km. Seismicity was dominated by 311 lava avalanches. Merapi remained at Alert Level 2 (on a scale of 1-4). Source: Volcanological Survey of Indonesia -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6-12 July 2005 An increase in the number of volcanic earthquakes at Merapi during 7-11 July led DVGHM to increase the Alert Level at the volcano to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) on 9 July. Source: Directorate of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 15-21 March 2006 Increased seismicity at Merapi led CVGHM to raise the Alert Level from 1 to 2 (on a scale of 1-4) around 20 March. According to a news articles, small earthquakes were recorded at the volcano on 19 March and more than 200 were recorded during the week. Around 10,000 residents near the volcano were warned to prepare for possible evacuations if activity escalates. Sources: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Agence France-Presse -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5-11 April 2006 According to a news article, authorities banned mountain climbing on 10 April at Merapi due to increased activity. There were reports that the amount of tremor had increased and that lava was seen flowing near Pasar Bubar village, ~350 m from the volcano's crater. Source: Deutsche Presse-Agentur -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12-18 April 2006 According to CVGHM, volcanic activity began to increase at Merapi on 11 April, and on 12 April at 1500 they raised the Alert level from 2 to 3 (on a scale of 1-4). They reported that an eruption could occur at any time and no one was permitted within 8 km of the summit. According to news reports, authorities informed people living in villages near the volcano to be prepared for possible evacuations. Sources: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Associated Press, Reuters -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 19-25 April 2006 During 21-25 April seismicity at Merapi remained at high levels, with several seismic signals recorded that were associated with rockfalls. The sulfur-dioxide flux from the volcano was 175 metric tons on 22 April. On 22 and 23 April, fumarolic emissions reached a maximum height of 400 m above the volcano (or 11,000 ft a.s.l.). On the 25th, two rockslides from lava-flow fronts were heard from nearby observatories. According to news reports, about 600 of the approximately 14,000 people living near the volcano had been evacuated by the 24th. Merapi remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Sources: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Reuters, Associated Press -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26 April to 2 May 2006 On 28 April, CVGHM observed a lava flow from Merapi traveling ~1.5 km SW to the Lamat River. On the 28th, seismicity was dominated by multiphase earthquakes. Signals from landslides, rockfalls, and low-frequency events were also recorded. According to news reports, around 27 April nearly 2,000 villagers were evacuated from Sidorejo and Tegalmulyo villages on the volcano's flanks. On the 27th, small amounts of ash fell in Gemer village about 5 km from Merapi's summit. Merapi remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4). Sources: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Xinhua News, Reuters -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3-9 May 2006 CVGHM reported that on 6 May, gas plumes rose to 800 m above Merapi (or 12,300 ft a.s.l.) and 18 incandescent avalanches of volcanic material were observed. On 7 May, 26 incandescent avalanches that extended about 100 m were seen during the morning. Incandescence was seen at the summit ten times. On 6 and 7 May, the lava dome continued to grow and seismicity was dominated by multi-phase earthquakes. Shallow volcanic earthquakes and signals from landslides and rockfalls were also recorded. On 8 May, the Darwin VAAC reported that CVGHM warned of a plume rising to ~3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l. No ash was visible on satellite imagery. Merapi remained at Alert Level 3 (on a scale of 1-4), as it has since 12 April. Sources: Center of Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (CVGHM), Darwin Volcanic Ash Advisory Center -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10-16 May 2006 CVGHM reported that on 11 May, gas plumes rose to ~600 m above Merapi (or 11,600 ft a.s.l.). Avalanches of incandescent material extended 200 m SE towards the Gendol River, and 1.5 km SW towards the Krasak River. Several small incandescent avalanches of volcanic material were visible from observatory posts. The new lava dome at the volcano's summit had grown to fill the gap between the 2001 lava flows and the 1997 lava flows on the W side of the summit. The lava dome reached a height above that of the 1997 lava flows. Seismicity was dominated by multi-phase earthquakes and signals associated with avalanches. On 13 May at 0940, the Alert Level was raised from 3 to 4, the highest level. The Darwin VAAC reported that on 11 May an ash plume was visible on satellite imagery below 3.7 km (12,000 ft) a.s.l. An ash plume at an unknown height was visible on satellite imagery on 15 May. According to news reports, after the Alert Level was raised to 4 on 13 May, about 4,500 people living near the volcano were evacuated. Intense activity occurred on 15 May, with pyroclastic flows traveling as far as 4 km to the W. By 16 May a total of about 22,000 people were evacuated; according to figures posted at the district disaster task force center about 16,870 people were evacuated from three districts in Central Java Province, and more than 5,600 others were evacuated from the Slemen district, a part of Yogyakarta Province. Activity decreased on 16 May. On 17 May pyroclastic flows traveled as far as 3 km. Local volcanologists reported that the lava dome continued to grow, but at a slower rate than during previous days.