MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, LUMAJANG — Mount Semeru in East Java erupted on Wednesday (19/11). In response, the Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Center (MDMC) of Lumajang Regency immediately mobilized to provide emergency services.
The eruption, accompanied by hot clouds, was recorded from 14:13 to 18:11 UTC+7 with amplitudes reaching a maximum of 45 mm and lasting more than 14.000 seconds. The flow of volcanic materials reached more than 13 kilometers toward the southeast-south. Until nightfall, vibrations from lava floods were still detected before gradually subsiding.
The Vice Secretary of Muhammadiyah Central Board (PP Muhammadiyah) MDMC, Budi Santoso, explained that the impact was mainly felt in the Candipuro and Pronojiwo districts.
“MDMC Lumajang recorded at least 467 people evacuating to several locations, including Oro-Oro Ombo Village Hall, Supiturang Elementary School, Sumberurip Elementary School, Candipuro District Office, and the home of the Sumbermujur Village Chief,” said Budi.
He added that the majority of evacuees were vulnerable groups such as toddlers, school-aged children, and the elderly. Two residents suffered burns of approximately 20 percent and were treated at the Candipuro Community Health Center.
In some areas, such as Penanggal Village Hall, residents who initially evacuated have returned home after the situation was deemed safer.
“Initial reports indicated that several houses in the Kamar A area (south of Supiturang 02 Elementary) were hit by volcanic mudflow material, blocking road access. As for public infrastructure, schools, and other essential services, no significant damage has been reported so far,” Budi explained.
Budi stated that as an initial response, MDMC Lumajang deployed emergency response teams to various locations to conduct rapid assessment, data collection on survivors, and on-site monitoring. Volunteers coordinated with the local Muhammadiyah Board and engaged in intensive communication with relevant agencies to ensure safe and organized evacuation and survivor handling.
“”Emergency health support has been strengthened through ambulance deployment and establishing health posts around evacuation sites. MDMC has also alerted network hospitals to prepare for more intensive medical care if needed,” he added.
Based on early assessment result, urgent needs include evacuation support for residents in affected areas, health and sanitation services at evacuation points, and ready-to-eat meals and clean water for survivors.
MDMC Lumajang continues to update the situation by referring to data from various institutions and volunteer networks in the field, while preparing to establish an integrated coordination post should the escalation require a medium-term response.
“Muhammadiyah calls on the public and the community to unite in supporting assistance for survivors of the Mount Semeru eruption, through prayers, strengthening volunteer networks, or logistical support distributed via official Muhammadiyah channels at the regional level,” Budi emphasized. (Bintang Adrian)
