Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupts, sends volcanic ash 10km high

East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia — October 15, 2025: Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted violently early Wednesday morning, sending a towering column of volcanic ash 10 kilometers into the sky and prompting authorities to raise the alert level to its highest tier.

The eruption, which began at 1:35 a.m. local time and lasted approximately nine minutes, was followed by a second blast just hours later. The volcano, located on Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara province, has shown heightened activity since Monday, according to the country’s Geological Agency.

🚨 Evacuation Orders and Safety Measures

Officials have warned residents and tourists to stay at least 6 kilometers away from the volcano’s crater, citing risks of further eruptions and potential volcanic mudflows if heavy rains occur. “People living near the volcano should be aware of the potential volcanic mudflow,” said agency head Muhammad Wafid.

Dozens of villagers in nearby communities have already been evacuated as ash blanketed homes and farmland. Emergency teams are on standby, and local airports are monitoring air traffic disruptions, though no flight cancellations have been reported yet.

🌋 A History of Activity

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. It previously erupted in July and August, causing temporary flight disruptions and local evacuations.

Indonesia, situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is home to more than 120 active volcanoes and experiences frequent seismic activity.