East Flores, Indonesia | June 24, 2025 –The Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano in East Flores, Indonesia, has erupted with unusual intensity, spewing ash clouds up to 16 kilometers into the atmosphere and prompting the evacuation of multiple villages, flight disruptions, and tsunami risk assessments across the region.
The eruption, which began on June 17, continues to show strong activity, with more than 50 ash-emitting events recorded in under two hours last week. Indonesia’s Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) has maintained a Level 4 alert—the highest status—indicating the potential for further eruptions and associated hazards.
Evacuation Zone Expanded
Authorities have expanded the evacuation radius to 7–8 kilometers, covering villages including Boru, Hewa, Watobuku, and Nurabelen. Emergency shelters have been set up, and residents are being provided with food, masks, and sanitation kits.
“We continue to monitor volcanic activity very closely. The safety of the people is our top priority,” said a PVMBG official. Volcanic tremors and smaller eruptions have persisted, with the latest plume recorded at 1 kilometer high on Wednesday.
Flight Disruptions and Visibility Concerns
The massive ash cloud has disrupted local and international flights, especially to and from Bali and surrounding areas. Airlines have canceled or rerouted dozens of services due to poor visibility and aviation safety concerns.
The ash plume was reportedly visible from over 90 kilometers away, prompting global weather and aviation agencies to issue alerts. Japanese authorities are also monitoring the eruption for possible tsunami risks, although no official warnings have been issued yet.
Indonesia’s Volcanic Landscape
Indonesia, located on the Ring of Fire, is home to more than 130 active volcanoes, making such events a regular part of the country’s geological rhythm. Mount Lewotobi, a twin-peaked stratovolcano with male (Laki-Laki) and female (Perempuan) cones, last erupted in 2023 with minimal disruption. This recent episode, however, is one of the most forceful in recent history.
Environmental Outlook
While volcanic eruptions can disrupt lives and livelihoods in the short term, they also play a role in long-term ecological renewal. Ash, though dangerous to breathe and damaging to crops, eventually enriches soil with minerals that boost biodiversity and agricultural productivity.
However, local officials have advised farmers to protect water sources and avoid exposure, while environmental teams assess the impact on surrounding ecosystems.
Conclusion
As Mount Lewotobi continues to rumble, this event is a reminder of nature’s immense power and the importance of preparedness, respect for natural forces, and resilient communities.