Indonesian Volcano Eruption Cancels 24 Bali Flights, Disrupts Regional Air Travel

A series of intense thunderstorms and a significant volcanic eruption at Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores island led to widespread flight disruptions at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport. The eruption produced an ash column reaching approximately 18,000 meters, prompting the cancellation of at least 24 flights, including those operated by Virgin Australia, Jetstar, and Qantas, affecting routes between Bali, Australia, Singapore, and South Korea. The volcanic activity has increased the alert status to the highest level, with exclusion zones expanded to a 7-kilometer radius due to the high potential danger, including impacts on aviation safety. Despite the disruptions, the airport has remained operational, with meteorologists closely monitoring ash cloud movements to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. The intense thunderstorms were partly caused by an equatorial Rossby wave, an atmospheric phenomenon that disrupted the usual dry season weather pattern in July. Airlines have advised travelers to monitor flight statuses closely as the situation evolves.