Mount Merapi's Recent Eruption: Unveiling the Hot Cloud Phenomenon and Urgent Mitigation Measures

Mount Merapi, located on the border of Central Java and Yogyakarta, has recently erupted. On 8 december 2023, Mount Merapi was recorded issuing hot clouds seven times. The center for the investigation and development of geological disaster technology (BPPTKG) informed that hot clouds have occurred seven times in the period from 14:49 to 15:48 with a glide distance of 3,500 meters to the southwest or Kali Krasak. The longest duration of hot cloud glide eruption was recorded on 8 december 2023. The first eruption lasted 360 seconds with 73mm. The volcanic hot clouds reportedly triggered ash rains in several areas such as Boyolali and Magelang. Then BPPTKG issued mitigation recommendations in response to the threat of the danger of volcanic eruption. In addition, people affected by the eruption should not be in the area and are also advised not to carry out activities in the potential danger area.