Mount Lewotobi in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara province erupted again on Wednesday, sending ash and volcanic materials high into the sky and significantly worsening air quality in the region.
The eruption propelled a thick, gray column of ash up to three kilometers above the crater, dispersing to the west and southwest, according to the Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Center. Despite the agency downgrading the Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation to an orange level—the second-highest alert—planes were still prohibited from flying at altitudes below five kilometers around the volcano.
Richard Felt, a senior official from the provincial disaster management agency, reported that continuous eruptions since November 4 have deteriorated air quality, causing respiratory issues among residents. “Although the ash and volcanic materials haven’t directly reached residents and evacuees, they have significantly degraded air quality. We anticipated this and distributed face masks, recommending people to use them,” he told Xinhua.
Evacuation centers accommodating approximately 12,000 people have been equipped with essential supplies, logistics, and health posts to mitigate the impacts of poor air quality.
Authorities are also on high alert for potential lava floods during heavy rainfall. Several high-risk areas have been identified, and residents have been warned to avoid these zones.
Standing at 1,584 meters, Mount Lewotobi is one of Indonesia’s 127 active volcanoes. Its renewed activity underscores the challenges faced by communities living in the shadow of the archipelago’s many volcanic peaks.
The ongoing eruptions highlight the need for continued vigilance and preparedness in disaster-prone areas. Travelers planning to visit East Nusa Tenggara are advised to stay updated on local advisories, while investors and businesses monitor how these natural events may impact regional economic activities.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
