About Sumbing
Sumbing is a stratovolcano rising to 3,370 meters (11,057 feet) in Indonesia's Sunda-Banda Volcanic Regions. Its last known eruption was in 1730 CE. The volcano has produced 1 recorded eruption, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 1.
Geography & Climate
Sumbing is located in Indonesia, within the Sunda Volcanic Arc of the broader Sunda-Banda Volcanic Regions. Situated at 7.38° S, 110.07° E in the Southern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a tropical climate zone. At 3,370 meters above sea level, Sumbing rises above the surrounding terrain into montane or subalpine conditions. The elevation creates distinct ecological zones along its flanks, from forested lower slopes to exposed rocky terrain near the summit. 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
Sumbing 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 Sumbing, 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
Sumbing has 1 recorded eruption in the geological database, spanning from 1730 CE to 1730 CE. The most powerful recorded event was a gentle, effusive event in 1730 CE, reaching VEI 1 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index.
GVP Reference Summary
Gunung Sumbing is a stratovolcano that is the SE-most edifice of a chain of volcanoes in central Java that includes Sundoro and the Dieng Complex. Prominent cones are located on the N and SE flanks. An 800-m-wide summit crater is breached to the NE, but is partially filled by a lava dome that extended beyond the original crater rim. Emplacement of the dome followed the production of extensive pyroclastic flows down the NE flank. Activity reported in about 1730 CE may have produced the small phreatic craters found at the summit behind the dome.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
1 Recorded Eruption
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1730 | 1 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Sumbing
Is Sumbing an active volcano?+
Sumbing is classified as active based on credible evidence of past eruptions. Although its last known eruption was in 1730 CE, volcanologists consider it capable of erupting again.
When did Sumbing last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Sumbing occurred in 1730 CE with a Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 1. The eruption was classified as a "Confirmed Eruption." Sumbing has 1 recorded eruption in total.
How high is Sumbing?+
Sumbing has a summit elevation of 3,370 meters (11,057 feet) above sea level. At 3,370 meters, it is comparable in height to many significant mountain peaks and stands well above the tree line.
What type of volcano is Sumbing?+
Sumbing 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 Sumbing located?+
Sumbing is located in Indonesia, in the Sunda-Banda Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Sunda Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are -7.382° latitude, 110.075° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Sumbing?+
Sumbing 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.
