A volcano in eastern Indonesia, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, erupted on Tuesday, producing impressive columns of hot ash that reached heights of 10,000 meters. The eruption occurred at 5:35 PM local time (10:35 PM GMT) on the tourist-rich island of Flores, creating a significant gray mushroom cloud.
Indonesia’s Geology Agency reported that the ash cloud was distinctly thick and gray. Fortunately, there have not been any immediate reports of damage or injuries. The eruption was so powerful that it was visible from cities as far as 90 miles away.
Muhammad Wafid, the head of Indonesia’s Geology Agency, advised residents and visitors to avoid traveling within a four-mile radius of the volcano’s crater. He also cautioned about the threat of lahar floods—mud or debris flows from volcanic materials—especially if heavy rainfall follows. It was recommended that residents wear face masks to shield themselves from inhaling volcanic ash.
This is not the first eruption for Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki. In November, it erupted multiple times, resulting in nine fatalities and forcing thousands to evacuate their homes due to molten lava inundating nearby villages. While there were significant flight disruptions at that time, no cancellations related to Tuesday’s eruption have been reported thus far.
The volcano, which stands at 1,584 meters, is one of two peaks that make up the twin volcanoes of Lewotobi, the other being Perempuan, which is taller at 1,703 meters and is perceived as less volatile. Indonesia, home to 270 million people, has 120 active volcanoes and frequently experiences seismic and volcanic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ocean’s Ring of Fire.
While volcanic eruptions can pose serious risks, they also contribute to the rich geology and varied ecosystems of the region. The local communities often adapt, learning to live in harmony with this natural phenomenon, while taking ongoing precautions for safety.