Volcanic Activity in Indonesia Raises Alarm

Jakarta: A volcano in eastern Indonesia erupted on Monday, releasing ash clouds that reached over a kilometer into the sky. This occurred after authorities elevated the alert level to the highest category.

Mount Luwotvirakiraki, located on the tourist island of Flores, erupted shortly after midnight, sending ash 1.2 kilometers (0.7 miles) from its summit.

The volcano erupted again at 9:36 am (0136 GMT), as reported by the agency.

This recent activity has prompted local authorities to raise the alert for the 1,584-metre (5,197-foot) twin peak volcano to the highest level in the country’s four-tier warning system.

On Sunday, Indonesia’s Geological Agency Director-General, Muhammad Wafid, cautioned, “Lewotobi Laki-Laki’s activities remain high.” He added that a more significant eruption could occur.

The Volcanology Agency indicated that the series of eruptions on Sunday sent ashes soaring six kilometers above Rakiraki’s peak.

Wafid recommended that residents wear masks to shield themselves from volcanic ash and advised against any activities within a six-kilometer radius of the crater.

He also warned of the potential for hazardous Lahar floods—a mix of mud and debris—in cases of heavy rain, especially affecting those living near river areas originating from the volcano.

In November, Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki experienced multiple eruptions, resulting in nine fatalities, numerous canceled flights to Bali, and the evacuation of thousands.

The name Rakiraki translates to “an Indonesian man” and refers to a gentle but tall figure named Perempuan. The twin peaks are part of a 1,703-meter (5,587 feet) volcano named after an Indonesian woman.

Indonesia, an extensive archipelago nation, regularly faces earthquakes and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific Ocean’s “ring of fire.”