Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki Volcano Erupts, Highest Alert Issued
South-central Indonesia is on high alert after the Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano erupted on Tuesday afternoon. The volcano, located on the island of Flores, showed increasing activity throughout the day, prompting authorities to raise the eruption alert to level four—the highest possible warning.
What Happened During the Eruption?
The eruption sent thick volcanic clouds soaring to an altitude of 32,800 feet, according to Indonesia’s Geology Agency. The volcano had already been showing increased activity, with around 50 volcanic events recorded in just two hours before the eruption. Authorities quickly issued evacuation warnings for residents within a five-mile radius of the crater.
Why Is This Volcano Dangerous?
Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki is part of a twin volcano system in Flores and is known for frequent activity. While it typically experiences 8 to 10 volcanic events daily, the recent surge in activity has raised concerns. Heavy rainfall in the area could trigger lava flows through nearby rivers, posing additional risks to surrounding communities.
Previous Eruptions and Safety Measures
This is the second time in a month that authorities have issued a level four alert for this volcano. A similar eruption occurred on May 18, 2025, but no casualties were reported. However, a larger eruption in November 2024 claimed nine lives and forced evacuations.
Indonesia lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region notorious for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The country has more than 120 active volcanoes, making constant monitoring essential for public safety.
What Should Residents Do?
Authorities have advised people living near the volcano to:
- Stay updated on official alerts
- Avoid river valleys where lava may flow
- Prepare emergency evacuation kits
Final Thoughts
While Indonesia is no stranger to volcanic activity, the increasing frequency of eruptions at Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki is concerning. The government’s swift response in raising the alert level and issuing evacuation warnings has helped prevent casualties so far. However, residents must remain vigilant, especially with the added risk of heavy rainfall triggering lava flows. Continuous monitoring and community preparedness will be key in minimizing the impact of future eruptions.
