Indonesia's Lewotobi Volcano Explodes: Villagers Flee "Sky on Fire" Amid Double Eruption

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia erupted twice within 48 hours on 17 and 18 June 2025, sending ash clouds up to 11 kilometres and forcing thousands to evacuate. Located on Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara, the 1,584-metre stratovolcano produced a 10-kilometre ash cloud during its first eruption at 5:35 p.m. local time, followed by a second eruption that sent ash 3 miles high, accompanied by lightning and thunder. The Indonesian Geology Agency raised the alert level to its highest, expanding the exclusion zone to a 7-kilometre radius due to risks of lava flows, particularly if heavy rainfall occurs. Drones observed lava filling the crater, indicating significant magma movement.

The eruptions disrupted air travel, with 24 flights cancelled between Bali and destinations like Australia, Singapore, and South Korea. Domestic flights from El Tari airport in Kupang to Maumere and Larantuka were also halted. The volcano, part of a twin system with the less active Mount Lewotobi Perempuan, has been at the highest alert level since June, following a deadly eruption in November 2024 that killed nine people. Indonesia, situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” has 120 active volcanoes, making seismic activity a constant challenge. The government is closely monitoring the situation to ensure public safety, with evacuation centres set up for displaced residents.

The eruptions caused no reported casualties, but the threat of further activity remains, especially with potential rain-induced lava flows. The economic impact includes disruptions to tourism, a key industry in Bali, and challenges for local farmers due to ash-covered fields.

The Geology Agency continues to use drones and satellite data to track the volcano’s activity, urging residents to stay outside the exclusion zone. Indonesia’s experience with frequent volcanic eruptions has led to robust disaster response systems, but the scale of Mount Lewotobi’s activity tests these measures. The government is also addressing flight disruptions by coordinating with airlines to reschedule routes. The situation underscores the challenges of living near active volcanoes, where fertile soil attracts communities despite the risks. Long-term strategies, such as improved early warning systems and infrastructure resilience, are essential to mitigate future impacts.

These eruptions highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness in Indonesia’s volcanic regions, as well as the importance of international support for disaster management.

Source: Sustainability Times