Indonesia Raises Alert to Highest Level for Lewotobi Laki-laki Volcano
Indonesia has elevated the alert status for Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located on Flores Island in eastern Indonesia, to the highest level after the volcano erupted eight times over the weekend. This decision follows a significant increase in volcanic activity, with eruptions sending thick ash clouds up to 5.5 kilometers (about 3.5 miles) above the volcano’s peak on Sunday.
Eruption Activity: The volcano released volcanic ash reaching altitudes between 3,000 and 5,500 meters (9,800 to 18,000 feet) above the summit, with the ash drifting towards the west and northwest. On Monday morning, another eruption produced ash clouds rising 1.2 kilometers (0.7 miles) into the sky.
Alert Level: The alert status was raised from level 3 (alert) to level 4 (warning), the highest on Indonesia’s four-tier system. Level 4 indicates that an eruption is imminent or ongoing, and residents in the surrounding area should evacuate as soon as possible.
Exclusion Zone: Authorities have established a six-kilometer (about 3.5-mile) exclusion zone around the crater, warning residents and tourists to stay clear due to the risk of further eruptions and potential cold lava flows (lahars) if heavy rain occurs.
Current Impact: As of the latest reports, there have been no evacuations or flight cancellations directly linked to these recent eruptions. However, previous eruptions in March caused flight disruptions, and a major eruption in November 2024 resulted in at least nine deaths and the evacuation of thousands.
Aviation Alert: The eruption has triggered a red alert for aviation, indicating significant ash emissions into the atmosphere and warning airlines of potential hazards.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki is one of over 100 active volcanoes in Indonesia, a country situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an area prone to high seismic and volcanic activity due to tectonic plate boundaries. Officials continue to monitor the volcano closely, warning that the potential for a larger eruption remains.
Residents are advised to wear masks to protect against volcanic ash inhalation.
Authorities are monitoring for heavy rainfall, which could trigger dangerous mudflows or lahars.
The public is urged to stay outside the designated exclusion zone until further notice.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki’s ongoing activity underscores the persistent volcanic hazards faced by communities in Indonesia and the importance of robust monitoring and rapid response systems.
