A volcanic eruption on Indonesia Mount Dukono has killed three hikers and left 10 others missing after a sudden explosion sent a massive ash cloud nearly 10 kilometres into the air, according to local authorities.
Police officials in North Halmahera district confirmed that among the deceased were two foreign nationals and one Indonesian resident from Ternate island. Seven other hikers were safely evacuated from the affected area, while search operations continue for those still unaccounted for.
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The eruption occurred on Friday morning, triggering emergency response efforts in difficult and hazardous terrain. Authorities said the area had already been declared off-limits to visitors due to increased volcanic activity observed in recent weeks.
BREAKING: Three hikers, including two foreign nationals, were killed and 10 others remain missing after Mount Dukono erupted on Halmahera Island, North Maluku Province, Indonesia. pic.twitter.com/4xqGsmhaRJ
— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) May 8, 2026
According to Indonesia’s disaster management agency, five climbers were injured during the eruption. Rescue teams from the Regional Disaster Management Agency and the National Search and Rescue Agency have been deployed to locate missing individuals and evacuate survivors.
Officials described challenging conditions, noting that access routes are limited and rescuers are often required to proceed on foot, carrying injured victims on stretchers through unstable ground. Ongoing volcanic activity and rumbling sounds have further complicated rescue operations.
Geological authorities reported that the eruption was accompanied by a loud booming noise and a thick ash column rising high above the crater. The ash plume has drifted northward, raising concerns for nearby communities, including Tobelo City, which has been advised to remain alert for ash fall.
Health experts have also warned that volcanic ash could pose respiratory risks and potentially disrupt transportation in surrounding areas.
Indonesia lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” a region known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The country has nearly 130 active volcanoes and maintains a multi-level alert system to monitor volcanic activity.
Authorities noted that Mount Dukono has been on alert level two, with strict recommendations issued earlier for tourists and climbers to stay at least four kilometres away from the crater.
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Officials said some hikers had ignored warnings and social media advisories urging people to avoid the site, reportedly attempting to visit the volcano for content creation purposes. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as conditions allow.