Indonesia Raises Highest Alert After Multiple Mount Lewotobi Eruptions

Indonesia has raised the alert level for Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island following multiple volcanic eruptions, with ash clouds reaching heights between 1.2 and 6 kilometers. Authorities have expanded the danger zone to a 7-kilometer radius in some sectors and enforced a 6-kilometer exclusion zone elsewhere, advising residents to wear masks and remain vigilant against potential lava floods caused by rainfall. The volcanology agency, led by Muhammad Wafid, warned of the potential for larger eruptions and the risk of hazardous lahar floods in nearby river areas. Despite the heightened alert, no evacuations or flight cancellations have been reported yet, although past eruptions have disrupted air travel and tourism, including flight cancellations by airlines such as Jetstar and Qantas. The twin-peaked volcano, which includes Lewotobi Laki-Laki and its calmer counterpart Lewotobi Perempuan, has a history of eruptions that have caused fatalities and forced evacuations. Indonesia's location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” makes such volcanic activity a frequent concern for local communities and travelers alike.