Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located in East Flores Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, once again showed a significant increase in volcanic activity on Friday (10/7/2026). This natural phenomenon was marked by two eruptions occurring within a span of a few hours, sparking concerns over the safety of residents living on the mountain's slopes.
Based on data from the Lewotobi Laki-laki Volcano Monitoring Post (PGA), the first eruption was recorded at 06:05 WITA. The blast spewed a column of volcanic ash 1.2 kilometers above the crater peak. Thick grey ash was reported drifting to the west and northwest, with the eruption lasting 2 minutes and 36 seconds at a maximum amplitude of 29.6 mm.
Not long after, activity at the mountain, which is currently at Level III (Alert) status, rose again at 09:51 WITA. Although the observed ash column was lower, at around 600 meters, the thick volcanic ash was observed heading northeast and east. This subsequent eruption was recorded with a maximum amplitude reaching 44.4 mm.
In response to this situation, volcanological authorities emphasized that neither residents nor tourists should engage in any activities within a 5-kilometer radius of the eruption center. Furthermore, residents affected by ashfall are advised to wear masks or respiratory protection immediately to avoid health risks caused by exposure to volcanic material.
The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) assured that it continues to coordinate intensively with the East Nusa Tenggara BPBD. This step was taken to ensure the dissemination of disaster mitigation information runs effectively and remains responsive to future developments in Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki's activity status.
