Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki Erupts: Ash Clouds Disrupt Air Travel in Indonesia

Major Eruption in Indonesia

Lembata/Delhi: The Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano in Indonesia erupted dramatically on Tuesday, sending ash clouds up to 10,000 meters high. In response, local authorities elevated the alert status to the highest level and extended the danger zone to an 8-kilometer radius from the crater. The ash plume, resembling a massive mushroom, could be seen from cities located 90 to 150 kilometers away.

The eruption caused significant disruptions to air travel, leading an Air India flight headed for Bali to turn back to New Delhi on Wednesday. The airline confirmed that flight AI2145 was redirected due to the volcanic activity near its destination, prioritizing passenger safety. The flight landed safely, and all passengers were disembarked. Air India is providing hotel accommodations, full refunds, or options for complimentary rescheduling.

Indonesia’s Geology Agency reported an unprecedented level of volcanic activity at Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki, noting 50 volcanic events within just two hours, a stark increase from the typical 8 to 10 tremors per day. Fortunately, there have been no reported casualties from this eruption, but residents have been warned about potential lava flows during heavy rainfall.

Standing at 1,584 meters (5,197 feet), this volcano is situated in the Flores Timur district and is part of a dual volcanic system alongside Mount Lewotobi Perempuan. Previous eruptions, including one last November that resulted in nine fatalities and numerous injuries, highlight the area's geological instability.

Indonesia, home to 270 million people, is highly susceptible to seismic activity, featuring 120 active volcanoes. The nation lies along the Pacific 'Ring of Fire,' where tectonic plates frequently collide, leading to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.