A powerful volcanic eruption has rocked the region, unleashing a fiery ash cloud that soared into the atmosphere and blanketed nearby communities in ash and debris. Authorities have issued urgent evacuation orders as seismic activity continues, raising fears of further eruptions. The dramatic event has disrupted air travel and sparked emergency response efforts, with residents and scientists closely monitoring the volcano’s next move.
The Indonesian government’s volcanology department said it recorded the volcano unleashing more than 10,000 meters (33,000 feet) of thick clouds.
The huge mushroom-shaped cloud was visible up to 90 miles away.
The eruption led to the emergency evacuation of hundreds of residents and the volcanology agency raising the alert to the highest level, warning of possible lava flows.
It was not clear if any flights had been affected yet and there were no initial reports of any casualties.
The government’s volcanology department said in a statement: “The public and tourists are urged not to carry out activities within a radius of 6 km from the eruption center, and to remain calm and follow directions from the local government. The public is also asked not to trust information whose source is not clear.
“In addition, communities around disaster-prone areas should be aware of the potential for lava flooding in the event of heavy rain, especially in watersheds upstream at the top of G. Lewotobi Laki-Laki, such as in Dulipali, Nobo, Hokeng Jaya, and Nurabelen.
“Residents affected by the ash rain are encouraged to wear masks or nose and mouth coverings to protect the respiratory tract.”
Standing at 1,584 meters (5,197 feet), Mount Lewotobi is one half of a twin volcano complex located in Indonesia’s Flores Timur district. Its counterpart, Mount Lewotobi Perempuan, forms part of this closely linked volcanic pair.
Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by Senel Media
