13 Volcanic Eruptions in Asia in recent times that were devastating 

• Omar Haddad
• . August 4, 2025
• . Update: August 4, 2025 10:27 pm
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Between 2000 and 2025, Asia experienced devastating volcanic eruptions, displacing millions and testing local disaster resilience. Rapid evacuations, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows challenged communities across Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, and more. 

These events highlight the continent’s active geologic position home to hundreds of active volcanoes and the critical importance of preparedness in saving lives amid eruptive chaos.

1. Mount Merapi – Indonesia (2010)

Merapi erupted violently over several weeks in October–November 2010, spewing lava, pyroclastic flows, and ash into densely populated regions of Central Java. Authorities evacuated over 280,000 people. The eruption was well-monitored, and recovery focused on relocation, infrastructure rebuilding, and lahar control, lasting for nearly a year.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 353 deaths
    
  • 280,000+ displaced
    
  • Recovery spanned months; large-scale rebuilding and hazard zone creation
    

2. Mount Ontake – Japan (2014)

Mount Ontake erupted suddenly in September 2014 during peak hiking season, releasing deadly pyroclastic surges without warning. Many climbers were caught near the summit. The eruption led to national discussions about volcanic forecasting and increased safety regulations around Japan’s many stratovolcanoes.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 63 confirmed deaths
    
  • Dozens injured
    
  • Trails were closed; warning systems improved
    

3. Mount Sinabung – Indonesia (2014)

Sinabung reawakened in 2010 and erupted explosively in 2014 after centuries of dormancy. Ash and pyroclastic flows buried villages, displacing thousands. Repeated eruptions continued for years. Many areas remain off-limits, with long-term evacuations and permanent village relocations enforced.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 16 killed in 2014
    
  • Thousands permanently displaced
    
  • Ongoing risk monitoring and exclusion zones
    

4. Anak Krakatoa – Indonesia (2018)

The volcano’s partial underwater collapse triggered a deadly tsunami in the Sunda Strait, hitting coastal communities with no warning. Entire villages were swept away. Authorities struggled with the tsunami’s silent nature, as there was no earthquake to alert systems.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • At least 426 dead
    
  • 7,000+ injured
    
  • Tsunami detection systems upgraded afterward
    

5. Mount Semeru – Indonesia (2021)

In December 2021, Semeru’s lava dome collapsed, causing fast-moving pyroclastic flows and mudslides that engulfed nearby villages. Rainfall exacerbated lahar flows. Evacuation and search efforts were swift, and recovery lasted several months, with communities moved to safer zones.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 69 deaths
    
  • Over 10,000 displaced
    
  • Significant housing and infrastructure loss
    

6. Taal Volcano – Philippines (2020–2022)

Taal erupted in January 2020, sending ash across Luzon, grounding flights, and displacing hundreds of thousands. Activity continued sporadically until 2022. Government response included mass evacuations, exclusion zones, and long-term support for displaced families.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 39 deaths (mostly indirect)
    
  • 376,000+ evacuated
    
  • Recovery lasted more than two years
    

7. Mount Marapi – Indonesia (2023)

A sudden December 2023 eruption killed several hikers and released dense ash plumes, disrupting flights and local tourism. The eruption led to permanent trail closures and stricter climbing regulations. Rescue operations were conducted in harsh volcanic conditions.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 24 dead
    
  • 12 injured
    
  • Rescue operations took days; crater area restricted
    

8. Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki – Indonesia (2024)

Eruptions began in November 2024, ejecting ash 10 km high and forcing the evacuation of surrounding villages. Ashfall and lava flows damaged homes and farmland. Emergency shelters were established, and many residents were permanently relocated from high-risk zones.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 9 deaths
    
  • Thousands displaced
    
  • Multi-month rebuilding phase
    

9. Kanlaon Volcano – Philippines (2024)

A brief but powerful eruption in mid-2024 sent ash high into the air, prompting the evacuation of over 87,000 people. Though casualties were minimal due to swift action, local agriculture and infrastructure faced temporary disruption.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • No fatalities
    
  • 87,000+ evacuated
    
  • Quick recovery and minimal infrastructure damage
    

10. Mount Agung – Indonesia (2017–2019)

Repeated explosive eruptions disrupted flights in Bali, evacuating over 100,000 people and straining the local economy due to the island’s dependence on tourism. Though fatalities were avoided, the economic impact was significant, and infrastructure was hardened afterward.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • No confirmed deaths
    
  • Over 100,000 displaced
    
  • Travel and tourism disruptions
    

11. Mount Gamalama – Indonesia (2011)

A sudden eruption sent volcanic debris over Ternate Island. Pyroclastic flows destroyed houses and farmlands. Swift evacuation minimized casualties. The recovery included housing aid, infrastructure cleanup, and temporary resettlements.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 4 deaths
    
  • Dozens displaced
    
  • Local recovery completed within weeks
    

12. Dieng Volcanic Complex – Indonesia (2017)

A phreatic explosion at the tourist site injured visitors, and a rescue helicopter later crashed during operations. Authorities enhanced visitor safety and emergency access protocols in the area after the incident.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • 8 killed (including rescue personnel)
    
  • Several injured tourists
    
  • Focused on improving emergency logistics
    

13. Mount Soputan – Indonesia (2018)

Eruptions sent ash over 5 km high, threatening air traffic and nearby villages. The government issued flight alerts and closed airspace temporarily. While casualties were avoided, thousands were evacuated from the surrounding region.

• Aftermath & Casualties:
  
  • No reported fatalities
    
  • Evacuations carried out
    
  • Recovery completed within days