Indonesia Lewotobi Volcano Eruption Cancels Multiple Australia-Bali Flights

Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano erupted again, sending an ash column up to 18-20 kilometers high and prompting the country's geohazard agency MAGMA to issue its highest-level emergency alert. The eruption caused the cancellation of several international flights between Australia and Bali, including at least three Virgin Australia flights and multiple Jetstar flights, with Qantas reporting only minor delays. Airlines emphasized that passenger and crew safety remains their top priority, with expert meteorologists closely monitoring ash cloud activity to determine when flights can safely resume. MAGMA warned of ongoing eruptions and thick volcanic ash, as well as the potential for hazardous lahar floods if heavy rains occur, especially near rivers. The volcano, located in East Nusa Tenggara, has erupted repeatedly in the past year, including a deadly blast less than a year ago that killed nine people. Passengers traveling to or from Bali are advised to check with airlines frequently for flight status updates due to the evolving situation.