Jakarta, ThedailyID — Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted again on Friday evening, sending volcanic ash 1.5 kilometers above its summit and lighting up the night sky with a visible red glow.
The eruption occurred at 6:22 p.m. local time. Residents in several areas of East Flores could see the volcano’s glowing peak from a distance.
According to monitoring officials, the eruption produced a dense dark-gray ash column that drifted toward the west and northwest.
Seismic instruments recorded a maximum amplitude of 40.7 millimeters. The eruption lasted for about two minutes and 13 seconds and generated a loud rumbling sound.
Authorities continue to maintain the volcano at Level III, or Alert status.
Officials warned residents, visitors, and tourists to avoid activities within a five-kilometer radius of the crater. They also urged communities to follow official information from local authorities.
Moreover, disaster officials advised residents to remain alert for possible volcanic mudflows during periods of heavy rainfall.
The risk extends to river systems originating from the volcano. Areas including Dulipali, Padang Pasir, Nobo, Nurabelen, Klatanlo, Hokeng Jaya, Boru, and Nawakote could face potential impacts if lahars occur.
People exposed to volcanic ash have also been advised to wear masks or other protective coverings to reduce health risks.
Friday’s eruption marked the volcano’s fourth eruptive event of the day.
Earlier, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted three times during daylight hours. The eruptions occurred at 11:02 a.m., 11:15 a.m., and 2:39 p.m. local time.
The strongest eruption sent volcanic ash as high as 2.5 kilometers above the summit. The other events produced ash columns reaching 1.3 kilometers and 1 kilometer above the crater.
Indonesia sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most active seismic and volcanic zones.
As activity at Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki continues, authorities are closely monitoring conditions and remain prepared to issue further warnings if the situation escalates.
