Jakarta
Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi erupted once again on Monday, forcing more than 12,000 people to evacuate as the danger zone around the volcano was extended. Located in East Flores regency in Nusa Tenggara, the eruption sent ash plumes up to 2,500 meters into the air, with ash spreading west and northwest.
Due to the increased volcanic activity, the hazardous area around the crater was expanded from a 7 km radius to 9 km, prompting further evacuations. “We have advised all communities within a 12 km radius of the crater to evacuate,” said Richard Felt, a senior official with the provincial disaster agency.
Evacuees are being sheltered in at least three designated centres, with additional support from relatives in safer areas. In addition to the human toll, the eruption has disrupted air travel, causing the temporary closure of three provincial airports. The aviation alert remains in place, restricting flights below 6 km above the volcano.
This eruption follows a previous one on November 4, which killed 10 people, injured 63, and displaced over 4,000. Mount Lewotobi, which stands 1,584 meters tall, is one of Indonesia’s 127 active volcanoes.
