Mount Lewotobi Laki‑Laki Volcano Erupts on Indonesian Island

Mount Lewotobi Laki‑Laki, an active volcano on Indonesia’s Flores island, erupted early Monday, hurling a towering ash plume into the sky and prompting authorities to raise the alert level for nearby communities.

According to Indonesia’s Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, the eruption sent ash approximately 3 kilometers (about 1.9 miles) above the crater. Residents in neighboring villages were urged to wear masks and remain indoors due to falling ash, which also led to flight disruptions at nearby airports.

Local officials restricted access to the volcano’s vicinity, blocking an exclusion zone extending several kilometers from the summit to prevent hikers and tourists from entering dangerous areas. Emergency services remain on standby to assist anyone affected by the ashfall.

While there were no immediate reports of injuries, the eruption revived concerns over possible impacts on agriculture, water supplies, and air quality in surrounding regions. Experts say ongoing monitoring is essential due to the volcano’s known history of frequent activity.

Indonesia is home to more than 120 active volcanoes, and eruptions like this are a reminder of the nation’s ongoing geological vulnerability. Authorities continue to monitor seismic activity and ash dispersal while preparing to assist local communities as needed.

With input from AP News