Eruption at Ibu volcano sends ash to 3 700 m (12 100 feet) a.s.l., Indonesia

Volcanic ash from Ibu volcano in Indonesia was observed at 3 700 m (12 100 feet) above sea level at 02:00 UTC on October 9, 2025. The advisory was issued by Darwin VAAC at 02:20 UTC.

According to the advisory, ash was observed from the surface up to flight level 120, which is approximately 3 700 m (12 100 feet). The eruption column was reported to have moved toward the northeast at 9 km/h (5.6 mph). The height and movement of the ash cloud were based on ground reports and model guidance, with the ash currently obscured by meteorological clouds, and it is expected to dissipate within 12 hours. The current Aviation Color Code is Orange.

The Global Volcanism Program reported that activity at Ibu volcano continued during the previous week. Dense gray or white-and-gray ash plumes rose 300–700 m above the summit and drifted in multiple directions. Incandescence at the summit was visible in some nighttime webcam images. The volcano remains at Alert Level 2, with recommendations to stay 2 km from the active crater and 3.5 km from the northern crater wall opening.

Ibu is a stratovolcano located on Halmahera Island, Indonesia. The volcano is known for its frequent explosive activity, producing ashfall and pyroclastic flows. The region near Ibu is sparsely populated, but settlements exist within 20 km (12 miles) of the volcano, which are at risk from ashfall and other volcanic hazards.