A series of eruptions from Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki has sent residents in East Flores, Indonesia, into a state of panic. With ash towers reaching up to 8km into the sky and volcanic lightning illuminating the scene, the situation has become increasingly alarming following a deadly week.
Continued Eruptive Activity
The 1,703m twin-peaked volcano has erupted more than a dozen times since its initial explosion on 3 November 2024, resulting in ten unfortunate fatalities. According to Prihatin Hadi Wijaya, head of Indonesia’s volcanology agency, the most significant eruptions occurred on 8 November, reaching heights of nearly 10km.
Evacuation and Exclusion Zones
- The exclusion zone around the volcano has been expanded to 8km.
- Officials have raised the alert level to the highest tier in their four-level system.
- Locals have been evacuated, with many seeking shelter from the threat.
Residents outside the newly established exclusion zone have witnessed an unprecedented spectacle. Anastasia Adriyani, a local, remarked, “This is the first time I saw such a big eruption since living here. I was cooking for evacuees when it happened and ran back home in fear.”
Community Impact and Reactions
As the eruptions continue, fear and anxiety grip the community. Evacuee Antonius Puka, 56, expressed his concerns: “We are saddened to think of our village. We’re still worried as the eruptions rumble on…” With many locals seeking refuge in temporary shelters, the toll on their mental and emotional well-being is evident.
Indonesia’s Volcanic Landscape
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, nicknamed after the Indonesian word for “man,” sits alongside its calmer counterpart, often referred to as “woman.” Indonesia, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is no stranger to volcanic activity, making constant vigilance necessary in the region.
While there have been no immediate reports of significant damage from the recent eruptions, the community’s collective trauma from the volcanic activity underscores the need for continued monitoring and support for affected residents.