At least ten individuals have lost their lives following the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located on Indonesia’s Flores Island, early on Monday, as reported by local officials. The eruption commenced just before midnight, unleashing torrents of fiery lava and rocks that cascaded onto nearby villages. This devastating event caused significant damage to homes and ignited fires within a four-kilometer radius of the volcano.
In response to the eruption, the Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMG) elevated the alert level for Mount Lewotobi to its highest status, which necessitated the evacuation of residents within a seven-kilometer radius. Local official Heronimus Lamawuran confirmed that evacuation efforts began on Monday morning, with residents being moved to safer areas approximately 20 kilometers away from the crater.
Footage shared by various sources depicted extensive destruction, showcasing homes consumed by flames and residents covered in ash, highlighting the dire aftermath of the eruption. Images showed flames rising perilously close to villages, with many distressed residents appearing with ash-covered clothing and faces, a stark reminder of the volcanic chaos that had unfolded.
The eruption has severely impacted seven villages, prompting the local government to declare a state of emergency that will remain in effect for the next 58 days. This emergency declaration allows the central government to mobilize resources and provide aid to approximately 10,000 residents affected by the disaster.
In addition to the immediate dangers posed by the eruption, the Indonesian disaster agency has issued warnings about the risk of flash floods and cold lava flows. These risks arise from the potential for volcanic material to mix with rainfall, compounding the dangers in the days ahead.
The prolonged eruptions of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki have also had a detrimental effect on local agriculture and the economy. Many residents, including those who farm cashews, have been forced to abandon their homes and fields as ash fallout has wreaked havoc on crops.
Indonesia, situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is particularly susceptible to volcanic and seismic activity, hosting around 130 active volcanoes. Despite the inherent dangers, many communities continue to inhabit areas near these volcanoes, drawn by the rich, fertile soil that the eruptions create, which supports agricultural activities.
