Thick volcanic ash from eruptions of Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki has blanketed villages in Indonesia, prompting residents to wear masks and causing significant disruption. The volcano, located on Flores Island, erupted at dawn on Tuesday, projecting lava and ash clouds as high as 4km into the sky. This followed a dramatic event on Monday when volcanic materials soared up to 18km, with an evening burst sending ash up to 13km high. No casualties have been reported, but the impact is widespread, affecting more than 10,000 people in 10 villages across East Flores and Sikka districts.
Images and videos shared on social media depict a scene of chaos, with terrified residents fleeing under a rain of ash and gravel. Motorists struggled to navigate the roads in reduced visibility as ash clouds took on a mushroom shape. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency, through its spokesperson Abdul Muhari, confirmed the volcano has remained at the highest alert level since June 18. “People around the volcano have increasingly understood how to minimise the impact of disaster risks,” said Muhari.
Local Impact and Safety Measures
The eruptions have turned roads and fields in villages like Nawakote, Klantanio, Hokeng Jaya, Boru, Pululera, and Wulanggitang into grey landscapes covered in thick mud and rocks. In response, authorities have distributed 50,000 masks and advised residents to limit outdoor activities for safety. The current eruptions follow a deadly event in November 2024, where nine people were killed and dozens injured.
Beyond the immediate vicinity, the volcanic activity has disrupted transportation links. Two airports in the cities of Maumere and Larantuka in East Nusa Tenggara province were closed on Tuesday. Flights to and from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali experienced delays and cancellations, affecting carriers such as Virgin Australia and Jetstar. However, airport spokesperson Ahmad Syaugi Shahab stated that operations were normal as Bali’s airspace remained unaffected by the ash.
Indonesia’s Volcanic Landscape
Indonesia, home to 120 active volcanoes, sits along the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, known for its seismic activity. The country’s volcanic landscape poses constant challenges for local communities, demanding preparedness and swift response to eruptions. The government continues to monitor Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki closely, ensuring that safety measures are in place and that residents are well-informed and equipped to deal with the ongoing eruptions.
