Mount Lewotobi in Indonesia Erupts with Ash Plume Reaching 18,000 Meters, Highest Alert Level Issued

At 11:05 AM local time on July 7, Mount Lewotobi in East Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia, erupted violently, sending an ash plume soaring up to 18,000 meters. According to the Lewotobi Volcano Observatory, the eruption produced dense gray to black volcanic ash drifting north, northeast, and northwest, accompanied by loud roaring sounds.

Indonesia’s volcanology and geological disaster agency promptly raised the volcano’s alert status to level four — the highest in the alert system. Authorities have urged residents and tourists to maintain a safe distance of at least 6 kilometers from the crater, stay calm, follow official instructions, and avoid spreading unverified information.

Communities along rivers near the volcano have also been warned of potential volcanic mudflows, especially during heavy rains. Relevant agencies advised heightened vigilance against mudflow hazards.

The volcanic ash disruption forced the temporary suspension of flights at Maumere Airport in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, on July 7. An official notice from the airport management stated that operations would remain halted until July 8 for safety reasons.

This eruption underscores the unpredictable and severe nature of natural disasters. Authorities continue to monitor the volcano closely and issue timely warnings to protect lives and property.