Jakarta
Mount Lewotobi, located in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province, erupted on Thursday, sending a massive ash plume up to 5,000 meters into the air. The eruption, which took place at 10:48 a.m. local time, prompted the highest aviation alert, with a red-level Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation issued.
The ash cloud spread west, southwest, and north of the crater, forcing authorities to declare a danger zone extending 7 km from the volcano. The alert warns aircraft to avoid flying below 6,000 meters in the area, as the ash clouds pose a significant risk to air travel.
Mount Lewotobi, which stands at 1,584 meters, had previously erupted on Sunday, causing 10 fatalities and injuring 63 people. The eruption displaced over 4,000 residents and destroyed hundreds of homes and buildings, triggering fires in the vicinity. Indonesia, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is home to 127 active volcanoes, making it highly prone to volcanic activity.
In another development, Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province also erupted on Thursday, sending ash up to 800 meters high, prompting local warnings and advisories for nearby communities.
