Indonesia Raises Volcano Alert to Maximum Level After Mount Lewotobi Eruption
Authorities in Indonesia have elevated the volcano emergency alert to its highest level following a powerful eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, which sent a massive volcanic ash cloud 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) into the atmosphere.
The eruption occurred early Wednesday morning at 1:35 a.m. local time (Tuesday 18:35 GMT) and lasted about nine minutes, according to Indonesia’s Geological Agency. Another eruption was recorded just two hours earlier, signaling heightened volcanic activity.
Although there have been no immediate reports of casualties or property damage, officials have urged residents and tourists on the eastern Indonesian island of Flores to remain vigilant and stay outside a 6–7 km (3.7–4.3 mile) radius from the volcano’s crater.
“The public should remain calm, follow local government directions, and avoid misinformation from unreliable sources,”
said Indonesia’s Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) in its latest bulletin.
Flight Disruptions and Evacuation Preparedness
The Fransiskus Xaverius Seda Airport in Maumere, located about 60 km (37 miles) west of the volcano, has been temporarily closed due to the ash cloud. Authorities said operations will remain suspended until Thursday to ensure flight safety.
Officials have also warned that heavy rain could trigger volcanic mudflows (lahars) in the surrounding areas, posing further danger to nearby villages.
A History of Powerful Eruptions
Mount Lewotobi has shown repeated volcanic activity over the past year. In July 2025, the volcano erupted again, producing an 18 km (11-mile) ash plume that disrupted air traffic across eastern Indonesia, including Bali’s international airport.
Previous eruptions in November 2024 killed ten people and damaged thousands of homes in nearby communities.
Volcanoes on the Ring of Fire
Indonesia, home to more than 120 active volcanoes, lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire—a vast zone of tectonic activity that frequently experiences earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Authorities continue to monitor Mount Lewotobi closely as seismic activity remains high, warning that additional eruptions are possible in the coming days.
