Serious Pyroclastic Flow Takes out Camera at Semeru Volcano, Indonesia (Nov 19, 2025)

On 19 November 2025, Indonesia’s Mount Semeru produced a large and dangerous pyroclastic flow, sending searing clouds of ash, gas, and rock many kilometers down its slopes. This video from panorama camera C captures the scale of the event from a safe vantage point. According to Indonesia’s Geological Agency (PVMBG), today’s eruption generated pyroclastic density currents traveling 7–8.5 km from the summit, accompanied by ash columns that rose several kilometers high. Authorities have raised Semeru’s alert level to Level IV (Awas), the highest alert status. During this event, the AfarTV monitoring cameras went offline due to extreme ashfall and intense activity in the region. We are assessing the situation, but the equipment may have been damaged by the eruption. We will update viewers as soon as we know more. Key points from PVMBG & BNPB: • Level IV (Awas) declared on the afternoon of 19 November 2025. • Residents and visitors should avoid all areas within 8 km of the summit, especially the Besuk Kobokan drainage. • People should stay at least 500 m away from riverbanks along Besuk Kobokan due to possible pyroclastic flows and lahars reaching up to 13 km. • At least three villages in Lumajang Regency were impacted, with about 300 residents evacuated as a precaution. This video is shared for education, documentation, and hazard awareness. If you live near Semeru or plan to visit East Java, always follow guidance from PVMBG, BNPB, and local authorities. 'The Vision' by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com.au