Indonesia's "Lewotobi Laki-Laki" volcano erupted multiple times last Friday, sending volcanic ash over 2.5 kilometers into the sky. Authorities ordered the closure of local airports, disrupting domestic flights.
Indonesia's National Volcanology Agency reported a major eruption at 11:15 a.m. local time, during which the volcano released large amounts of ash and volcanic debris into the air after several earlier eruptions that morning.
Currently, Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano is at the second highest alert level in Indonesia. Authorities have declared a 5-kilometer exclusion zone around the crater to prevent dangers from further eruptions.
Volcanology officials also warned residents living near rivers to remain especially vigilant during heavy rains, as "lahar"—flows of volcanic mud, rock fragments, and ash—could surge down waterways, causing severe damage.
Meanwhile, Maumere Airport, located about 60 kilometers from the volcano, has been temporarily closed, affecting five domestic flights.
Lewotobi Laki-Laki is one of Indonesia's most closely monitored volcanoes. The term "Laki-Laki" means "male" in Indonesian, while its neighboring volcano is called "Perempuan," meaning "female."
In July last year, this volcano erupted violently, sending ash plumes as high as 18 kilometers and forcing the cancellation of 24 flights at the international airport on Bali island.
Indonesia is one of the most volcanically and seismically active countries globally, located on the "Ring of Fire," an area prone to frequent tectonic plate movements and geological disasters.
:Sourcechannelnewsasia
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