[3] As the most active complex volcano in West Sumatra province, and in proximity to populated areas, Mount Marapi is a significant hazard.

[5] Since 2011, the volcano has been at the level II (Waspada) of a four-tier alert system set up by the Volcanological Survey of Indonesia.

About 1,400 people live on its slopes in the Rubai and Gobah Cumantiang villages, about 5–6 kilometres (3.1–3.7 mi) from the summit.

[14][15] On 22 December, the volcano erupted again, emitting volcanic ash that forced the cancellation of flights at Minangkabau International Airport.

[9] In response to the eruption, local authorities prohibited any activity within three kilometres (1.9 mi) of the volcano.

[1] At the end of 5 December, while the evacuation process was still ongoing, out of 23 fatalities found, only five bodies were recovered that day.