Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano in Indonesia has been emitting towering columns of ash following a deadly eruption that occurred earlier in the week. The volcano, located on the island of Flores, has been showing increased activity since the initial eruption on Monday. The danger zone has been expanded, and the alert status has been raised to the highest level. The volcano has been erupting multiple times, causing widespread damage to buildings, schools, and other structures on the island.
The recent eruptions have thrown volcanic materials such as rocks, lava, and ash up to 5 miles from the crater. The largest column of ash recorded reached 6.2 miles high, and the volcano has continued to emit ash clouds rising up to 5.6 miles. Despite the significant damage caused by the eruptions, no casualties have been reported so far. However, thousands of people have been forced to evacuate the area, with more than 10,000 individuals being affected in 14 villages.
Officials have warned residents not to return home, as hot clouds of ash are still spreading in all directions. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate displaced individuals, and relief supplies are being provided to those affected. The National Disaster Management Agency plans to relocate residents from the hardest-hit villages within six months and compensate affected families. The volcanic activity has also forced the closure of several airports in the region due to safety concerns related to volcanic ash.
Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki is part of a pair of stratovolcanoes in East Nusa Tenggara province, known as the “husband-and-wife mountains.” Indonesia is home to 120 active volcanoes due to its location on the “Ring of Fire,” a region with high seismic activity. The government is closely monitoring the situation and providing assistance to those affected by the eruptions. The volcanic activity serves as a reminder of the natural hazards faced by Indonesia, and highlights the importance of preparedness and response measures in mitigating the impact of such disasters.
