Volcanic ash from Dukono volcano observed at 1 830 m (6 000 feet) a.s.l., Indonesia

Volcanic ash from Dukono in Indonesia was observed at 1 830 m (6 000 feet) above sea level at 10:50 UTC on September 10, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Darwin VAAC at 11:10 UTC on the same day.

The ash cloud was last noted extending west at an altitude up to 1 830 m (6 000 feet). Satellite data from Himawari-9 was referenced as an information source. The current Aviation Color Code is Orange. Ash movement was reported towards the north-northwest at 18 km/h (11 mph). Due to meteorological cloud cover, the ash cloud was not identifiable on satellite imagery at the time of the report; ash presence and forecast were based on previous observations and model guidance.

According to the Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report for August 27 – September 2, 2025, Dukono exhibited ongoing eruptive activity, with daily white-and-gray gas-and-ash plumes rising 100–600 m (330–1 970 feet) above the summit and drifting towards the northwest and east. The Alert Level remained at Level 2, with a 4 km (2.5 miles) exclusion zone around the Malupang Warirang Crater advised.

Dukono is a large complex volcano located on Halmahera Island, Indonesia. It is characterized by frequent explosive eruptions, producing ash plumes, gas emissions, and has the potential for lava flows. Ashfall may impact surrounding villages, and nearby populations within several kilometers (miles) can be affected by fallout, especially during eruptive episodes. The region is sparsely populated but some settlements are found within potential ash dispersion areas.