On social media, many viewers were stunned after a viral video captured a moment showing a tourist climbing the active volcano Mount Dukono.
A tourist has drawn widespread criticism after a video surfaced showing her scaling the rim of Mount Dukono, an active volcano in Indonesia.
This shocking footage highlights the perils of ignoring safety warnings in highly dangerous areas.
Thrill-seeker climbs the rim of a continuously erupting volcano
On social media, the video captures the woman ascending Mount Dukono, located on the northern part of Halmahera Island. Known for its continuous eruptions since 1933, the volcano remains one of Indonesia’s most active and hazardous natural landmarks.
In the clip, the woman is seen finishing her risky climb, balancing precariously as the ground beneath her crumbles. Thick plumes of ash and smoke rise from the crater, but she appears unfazed.
At one point, she even gives a thumbs-up to the camera, seemingly unaware of the life-threatening danger.
Moments later, the volcano emits a loud explosion, startling her and forcing her to step back in shock.
The video concludes with smoke billowing ominously from the crater, a stark reminder of the volatile nature of the site.
History of accidents and strict warnings ignored
Mount Dukono is no stranger to accidents involving climbers who disregard safety warnings. Just a few months earlier, in August, drone footage captured a harrowing moment when a group of hikers had to flee as the volcano erupted without warning.
These climbers had entered a restricted zone, violating a ban enforced by Indonesia’s national disaster agency due to increased volcanic activity.
The agency has repeatedly cautioned the public to stay at least 3 kilometers away from the crater.
Social media reacts to the viral video
The video of the tourist’s climb has amassed over 921,700 views on social media, sparking heated discussions about the recklessness of her actions.
One person said: That edge can crumble at the slightest stress… look at her hand holds breaking apart.
A second wrote: What?! That’s wild! I love adrenaline, but this is just dumb. Breathing is more important.
While a third commened: That’s insane but who are the group on the far right of the frame – the stand your ground and don’t worry group.
Someone else said: I hope they survived!
Others shared personal experiences to emphasize the risks. One user recounted, “I climbed an active volcano once when I was younger and less wise. It’s thrilling, but incredibly stupid.”
Authorities call for stricter safety measures
Experts also weighed in, warning about the fatal dangers of pyroclastic flows, radiant heat, and sudden eruptions.
Priatin Hadi Wijaya, head of the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation, reiterated the danger. “The general public is advised not to climb or visit Mount Dukono as volcanic activity remains high,” he stated.
Dukono Volcano Observation Post Officer Bambang Sugiono also issued a firm reminder: “Our appeal is to always remain alert and follow PVMBG warnings. Avoid approaching the crater within a 3-kilometer radius.”
Despite these clear warnings, thrill-seekers continue to put themselves and others at risk by venturing into prohibited zones.
The incident has reignited debates about the need for stricter safety measures at active volcanoes in Indonesia. Some believe authorities should completely ban climbing on highly active sites like Mount Dukono and Mount Merapi.
While many tourists seek adventure and breathtaking views, the dangers of such activities are undeniable.
The lack of enforcement of safety regulations only exacerbates the risks, putting climbers and rescue teams in potentially fatal situations.