KUPANG: Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located in East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, erupted again on Thursday, sending volcanic ash as high as 5,000 meters above its crater. The eruption, reported by agencies, was confirmed by Yohanes Kolli Sorywutun, a monitoring officer for the volcano.

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The eruption produced an ash column rising to approximately 6,584 meters above sea level, with the ash drifting toward the southwest, west, and northwest. The event was recorded on a seismograph, showing a maximum amplitude of 47.3 millimeters and lasting 24 minutes and five seconds. Additionally, hot clouds were observed, reaching an amplitude of 47.3 millimeters, indicating the eruption’s intensity.

Sorywutun confirmed that the eruption was ongoing at the time of the report, and the Geological Agency of Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources maintained the volcano’s alert status at Level IV, or Warning.

Due to the current conditions, authorities have advised residents and visitors to avoid any activities within a seven-kilometer radius of the summit. The local community has been urged to stay calm, heed government instructions, and remain vigilant to the possibility of rain-triggered cold lava floods in rivers that originate from Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki.

Cold lava floods, or lahar, can occur when heavy rains mix with volcanic debris, creating mudflows that can cause significant damage. Residents should be prepared for potential disruptions and take precautions to ensure their safety.

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This eruption marks another significant activity at Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, highlighting the ongoing volcanic threat in the region. As Indonesia is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, it experiences frequent volcanic activity, and local authorities continue to monitor conditions to protect residents and travelers near active volcanoes.