Boyolali, Central Java. Residents living on the slopes of Mount Merapi continue farming despite ongoing lava flows, as authorities maintain the volcano’s alert status at Level III, or “standby.”

Local farmer Rahardjo said most recent lava avalanches have moved toward the southwest, primarily affecting areas in Sleman and Magelang, rather than his village in Selo, Boyolali.

“Small lava flows usually head toward Magelang or Sleman. It’s rare for them to come this way, though ash can still reach us depending on the wind,” he said on Saturday.

He added that recent eruptions sent volcanic ash as far as Tlogolele village in Boyolali, though his immediate area remains largely unaffected.

Another farmer, Sujanto, said residents remain cautious, recalling the major 2010 eruption that caused widespread damage and forced evacuations.

“Small eruptions are manageable, but if it’s like 2010, it’s very worrying. Crops were destroyed, and I had to evacuate,” he said.

According to the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (BPPTKG), Merapi recorded eight lava avalanches between midnight and 6 a.m. on Saturday, with flows reaching up to 2 kilometers toward the southwest.

The lava flows were directed toward several rivers, including Kali Sat/Putih and Kali Krasak. Seismic activity also remained elevated, with 30 avalanche quakes, 22 hybrid events and five shallow volcanic quakes recorded during the same period.

Authorities said the main hazards currently include lava flows and pyroclastic clouds, particularly in the southern and southwestern sectors. These could affect areas along the Boyong River up to 5 kilometers, and the Bedog, Krasak and Bebeng rivers up to 7 kilometers. In the southeast, potential impact zones include the Woro River (up to 3 kilometers) and the Gendol River (up to 5 kilometers).

Officials have urged residents to avoid activities in high-risk areas and remain alert to potential lava flows and pyroclastic clouds, especially during rainfall, which can trigger dangerous lahar flows.

They also warned of possible disruptions from volcanic ash, which can spread unpredictably depending on weather conditions.

BPPTKG said magma supply remains ongoing, meaning further eruptions are possible within the designated hazard zones. Authorities added that the volcano’s alert level would be reviewed if activity intensifies.

Add as a preferred source on Google +