Another Volcanic Eruption Prompts Highest Aviation Alert in Indonesia

In Indonesia, Mount Lewotobi in  East Nusa Tenggara province erupted again today, spewing a column of ash up to 5,000 meters high and prompting the highest aviation alert. The Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Centre reported that the eruption occurred this morning. According to media reports, Mount Lewotobi is at the highest alert level, with a designated danger zone extending 7 kilometres from the crater.

A Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation has been issued at the red level, the highest warning,



which prohibits flights below 6,000 meters around the crater. Aircraft are also advised to be prepared for ash clouds, which could disrupt flight operations.

Mount Lewotobi erupted late Sunday night, resulting in 10 fatalities and injuries to 63. Hot clouds and volcanic materials destroyed hundreds of homes and buildings, triggering fires in the area and displacing over 4,000 residents. Standing at 1,584 meters, Mount Lewotobi is one of Indonesia’s 127 active volcanoes.