The Mount Lewotobi eruption once again shocked residents on the island of Flores, Indonesia. Early Saturday, the volcano released a massive column of ash that soared 18 kilometers (11 miles) into the air. This marked the second major eruption in just 24 hours.
On Friday night, the mountain had already erupted. It launched lava and ash 10 kilometers high, accompanied by lightning that lit up the night sky. Residents fled inland, fearing a repeat of previous deadly eruptions.
Indonesia’s Geology Agency reported that hot clouds of gas and lava flowed 5 kilometers down the slope. Drones captured visible magma movement below the surface. The tremors were also detected by seismic monitors throughout the area.
Volcanic material, including gravel as large as a human thumb, reached villages as far as 8 kilometers away. As a precaution, authorities extended the exclusion zone to a 7-kilometer radius. They also warned residents of possible lahars due to heavy rain mixing with ash.
Saturday’s eruption is considered one of the biggest in Indonesia since the 2010 Mount Merapi disaster. That eruption killed over 350 people and displaced thousands. Although no deaths have been reported this time, officials remain cautious.
The government continues to monitor volcanic activity closely. Emergency services are on high alert. They have advised villagers to remain in shelters until the situation stabilizes.
Indonesia, home to over 120 active volcanoes, lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire.” As a result, eruptions and earthquakes are a frequent part of life in the archipelago. Nevertheless, the scale of the Mount Lewotobi eruption underscores the ongoing need for disaster preparedness.
