Major eruption at Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano ejects ash to 16.2 km (53 000 feet) a.s.l., Indonesia

A high-level eruption occurred at Indonesia’s Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano in East Flores Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, at around 14:56 UTC (22:56 local time) on March 20.

According to the Darwin VAAC, infrared satellite analysis indicates volcanic ash reaching 16.2 km (53 000 feet) above sea level (a.s.l.) and moving west. Low-level emissions up to 6.1 km (20 000 feet) a.s.l. are also observed moving southeast.

Lewotobi Laki-laki Volcano Observatory’s notice for aviation (VONA) issued at 14:56 UTC reports volcanic ash reaching 9.4 km (31 000 feet) a.s.l. based on ground observations.

As a result, the Aviation Color Code was raised from Orange to Red.

Indonesia’s Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) reported that eruptive activity at volcano continued from March 12 to 18, with eruptions producing gray ash plumes rising up to 2.5 km (8 200 feet) above the summit and drifting northeast, north, northwest, and west.

According to reports, 1 841 people had not returned home since evacuating in November 2024. They remain in shelters provided by the government, rental housing, or with relatives.

The ongoing eruptive activity at Lewotobi asks for strict adherence to safety measures to minimize risks to communities and visitors. Authorities have established an exclusion zone extending 7 km (4.3 miles) from the eruption center, with a broader restriction in the southwest to northeast sector reaching 8 km (5 miles). Residents and tourists are strongly advised to avoid these areas due to the heightened danger of pyroclastic flows, ashfall, and potential explosive activity.

Residents are urged to remain calm and follow the guidance of local authorities. It is essential to rely on official information sources and avoid spreading or acting on unverified reports, which could cause unnecessary panic or misinformation, PVMBG said.

Heavy rainfall in the region could mobilize lahars (volcanic mudflows), which pose a significant hazard to river valleys originating from Lewotobi.

Communities in Dulipali, Padang Pasir, Nobo, Klatanlo, Hokeng Jaya, Boru, and Nawakote should remain vigilant, particularly during periods of intense rainfall, as lahars can rapidly inundate river channels, carrying volcanic debris and causing damage to infrastructure and settlements.

Ashfall from ongoing eruptions poses respiratory hazards, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with preexisting conditions. Residents in affected areas should use masks or other protective coverings to reduce inhalation of fine volcanic ash, which can cause respiratory irritation and eye discomfort.

References:

¹ VA ADVISORY – Lewotobi – Darwin VAAC – 15:15 UTC on March 20, 2025

² Lewotobi Laki-laki – LVO – 14:56 UTC on March 20, 2025

³ Lewotobi – Geological Summary – GVP – Accessed on March 20, 2025