About Kie Matubu
Kie Matubu is a stratovolcano rising to 1,713 meters (5,620 feet) in Indonesia's Western Pacific Volcanic Regions. Its last known eruption was in 1210 CE. The volcano has produced 2 recorded eruptions, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 3.
Geography & Climate
Kie Matubu is located in Indonesia, within the Halmahera Volcanic Arc of the broader Western Pacific Volcanic Regions. Situated at 0.66° N, 127.40° E in the Northern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a tropical climate zone. With a summit elevation of 1,713 meters above sea level, Kie Matubu is a moderately sized peak that remains accessible to hikers and researchers for much of the year. The volcanic landform is characterized as a composite, which describes the physical shape and structure of the volcanic edifice as observed from the surface.
Geological Context
Kie Matubu sits in a subduction zone, where one tectonic plate dives beneath another, creating intense heat and pressure that generates magma. Subduction zones are responsible for many of the world's most explosive volcanoes and deadliest eruptions. For communities in Indonesia near Kie Matubu, this tectonic setting means the volcano is capable of producing powerful explosive eruptions, pyroclastic flows, and lahars that can threaten populated areas within tens of kilometers of the summit. The dominant rock type is andesite / basaltic andesite, a dark, fine-grained volcanic rock that forms from rapidly cooling, low-viscosity lava. Basaltic eruptions tend to be less explosive and produce fluid lava flows that can travel long distances. While less immediately dangerous than explosive eruptions, basaltic lava flows can destroy structures and infrastructure in their path, and volcanic gases released during these eruptions can affect air quality over a wide area.
Eruption History Summary
Kie Matubu has 2 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 749 BCE to 1210 CE. The most powerful recorded event was a severe eruption capable of regional ash fall and pyroclastic flows in 1210 CE, reaching VEI 3 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. Notable eruptions include 1210 CE (VEI 3), 749 BCE (VEI 3). These eruptions span roughly 1,959 years of volcanic history.
Significance
With a maximum recorded VEI of 3, Kie Matubu has produced eruptions capable of generating pyroclastic flows and significant ash fall in the surrounding area. While not among the largest eruptions globally, VEI 3 events pose serious hazards to local populations and can disrupt regional air travel.
GVP Reference Summary
The conical Kie Matubu volcano on the south end of Tidore Island is the highest peak of the North Maluku island chain west of Halmahera. Faral et al. (2022) identified deposits from two eruptions within the past 3,000 years.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
2 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1210 | 3 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
| 749 BCE | 3 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Kie Matubu
Is Kie Matubu an active volcano?+
Kie Matubu is not currently classified as active. Its activity evidence is listed as "Eruption Dated." The last known eruption was in 1210 CE. However, no volcano is ever considered permanently extinct.
When did Kie Matubu last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Kie Matubu occurred in 1210 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 3. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Kie Matubu has 2 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Kie Matubu?+
Kie Matubu has a summit elevation of 1,713 meters (5,620 feet) above sea level. At 1,713 meters, it is a moderately sized volcanic peak, roughly comparable to Mount Vesuvius (1,281m).
What type of volcano is Kie Matubu?+
Kie Matubu is classified as a Stratovolcano. Stratovolcanoes (also called composite volcanoes) are steep, conical volcanoes built up by many layers of hardened lava, tephra, and volcanic ash. They are among the most common and dangerous types, known for explosive eruptions.
Where is Kie Matubu located?+
Kie Matubu is located in Indonesia, in the Western Pacific Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Halmahera Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are 0.662° latitude, 127.403° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Kie Matubu?+
Kie Matubu can generally be visited, but as with any volcano, visitors should check local conditions and any advisory notices before traveling. Indonesia may have specific regulations for accessing volcanic areas. Guided tours are often the safest and most informative way to experience a volcano.
