Seismic activity increases at Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano, Indonesia
Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano in East Flores, Indonesia experienced a sharp rise in seismic activity between 12:00 and 18:00 LT (05:00–11:00 UTC) on July 25, 2025, including 34 volcanic earthquakes of multiple types. The Alert Level remains at IV (highest).
Lewotobi Laki-Laki on July 11, 2025. Credit: PVMBG
The Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano experienced a significant increase in seismic activity between 12:00 and 18:00 local time (LT) on July 25.
The Pusat Vulkanologi dan Mitigasi Bencana Geologi (PVMBG) reported two gas blast earthquakes with amplitudes ranging from 2.9 to 6.6 mm, lasting 24–45 seconds. Additionally, 13 non-harmonic tremor earthquakes with amplitudes of 4.4–7.4 mm and durations of 81–155 seconds were recorded.
One low-frequency earthquake with an amplitude of 5.1 mm and a duration of 18 seconds was also detected, along with 18 deep volcanic earthquakes. These had amplitudes between 2.9 and 47.3 mm, S-P times of 0.8–1.6 seconds, and durations of 8–14 seconds. S-P times refer to the difference between the arrival of the primary (P) and secondary (S) seismic waves, used to estimate the depth of the seismic source.
The volcano currently remains at Alert Level IV—the highest alert level. An exclusion zone has been established within a 6 km (3.7 miles) radius of the eruption center, with a sectoral extension to 7 km (4.3 miles) in the southwest–northeast direction.
There is an ongoing risk of lahars triggered by rainfall, particularly in the areas of Dulipali, Padang Pasir, Nobo, Nurabelen, Klatanlo, Hokeng Jaya, Boru, and Nawakote.
Residents affected by volcanic ash have been advised to wear masks or cover their noses and mouths to prevent respiratory issues.
Lewotobi Laki-laki has exhibited elevated volcanic activity since early July, including a major explosive eruption on July 7. That event produced an ash column rising over 19 km (63 000 feet) above sea level—the highest recorded at Laki-laki since the November 2024 eruption, which killed nine people and injured dozens.
Lewotobi is a stratovolcano located in Flores, Indonesia, comprising twin peaks known as Lewotobi Laki-laki (male) and Lewotobi Perempuan (female). The volcano is known for explosive eruptions capable of producing ashfall and pyroclastic flows.
Populated areas near the volcano include settlements in East Flores Regency. The town of Larantuka, located approximately 40 km (25 miles) to the northeast, may be at risk depending on eruption intensity and prevailing wind conditions.
I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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