About Tara, Batu
Tara, Batu is a stratovolcano rising to 633 meters (2,077 feet) in Indonesia's Sunda-Banda Volcanic Regions. It has been active in recent decades, with its last eruption in 2015 CE. The volcano has produced 4 recorded eruptions, with a maximum Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI) of 2.
Geography & Climate
Tara, Batu is located in Indonesia, within the Sunda Volcanic Arc of the broader Sunda-Banda Volcanic Regions. Situated at 7.79° S, 123.58° E in the Southern Hemisphere, the volcano lies within a tropical climate zone. With a summit elevation of 633 meters above sea level, Tara, Batu 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
Tara, Batu 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 Tara, Batu, 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 trachybasalt / tephrite basanite, 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
Tara, Batu has 4 recorded eruptions in the geological database, spanning from 1847 CE to 2022 CE. The most powerful recorded event was an explosive event producing ash plumes up to several kilometers in 2007 CE, reaching VEI 2 on the Volcanic Explosivity Index. These eruptions span roughly 175 years of volcanic history. With eruptive activity as recently as 2022 CE, Tara, Batu remains an actively monitored volcano.
GVP Reference Summary
The small isolated island of Batu Tara in the Flores Sea ~50 km N of Lembata (fomerly Lomblen) Island and the main volcanic arc. A scarp on the eastern side reaches the sea, and vegetation covers the other flanks to within 50 m of the summit. This volcano is noted for its potassic leucite-bearing basanitic and tephritic rocks. The first recorded eruption, during 1847-52, produced explosions and a lava flow.
— Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program
4 Recorded Eruptions
| Year | VEI | Type | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | — | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 2007 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
| 2006 | 1 | Uncertain Eruption | — |
| 1847 | 2 | Confirmed Eruption | — |
Real-Time Data
USGS Alert Level
Thermal Anomalies
Frequently Asked Questions About Tara, Batu
Is Tara, Batu an active volcano?+
Yes, Tara, Batu is considered an active volcano. Its most recent eruption was in 2015 CE. The volcano is monitored by geological agencies, and its activity status is based on observed eruptions within recorded history.
When did Tara, Batu last erupt?+
The most recent recorded eruption of Tara, Batu occurred in 2022 CE. The eruption was classified as a "Uncertain Eruption." Tara, Batu has 4 recorded eruptions in total.
How high is Tara, Batu?+
Tara, Batu has a summit elevation of 633 meters (2,077 feet) above sea level. At 633 meters, it is a relatively low-elevation volcano.
What type of volcano is Tara, Batu?+
Tara, Batu 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 Tara, Batu located?+
Tara, Batu is located in Indonesia, in the Sunda-Banda Volcanic Regions. More specifically, it lies within the Sunda Volcanic Arc. Its exact coordinates are -7.791° latitude, 123.585° longitude.
Is it safe to visit Tara, Batu?+
Visiting Tara, Batu requires checking current volcanic activity and alert levels. As an active volcano with eruptions as recent as 2015 CE, conditions can change rapidly. Always consult local geological authorities and follow official warnings before visiting. Many active volcanoes have designated safe viewing areas and guided tour options.
