Volcanic activity at Mount Ile Lewotolok in Lembata Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, has reportedly increased significantly. Throughout the observation period on Sunday (5/7/2026), the monitoring post recorded 107 eruptions accompanied by booming sounds and the ejection of incandescent lava material.
Stanislaus Ara Kian, an officer at the Ile Lewotolok Volcano Observation Post (PGA), stated that the eruptions triggered ash columns reaching heights of 200 to 400 meters. In addition to the white and gray ash columns, the eruptions were also followed by rumbling sounds of weak to moderate intensity. Incandescent material was detected sliding up to 200 meters toward the southeastern sector of the crater.
Technical data shows the eruptions had amplitudes ranging from 11.1 to 40 millimeters, with eruption durations lasting up to 275 seconds. In addition to the eruptive activity, 96 gust earthquakes and two harmonic tremor earthquakes were also recorded, indicating the dynamics of magma movement beneath the surface of the 1,455-meter-high volcano.
Currently, Mount Ile Lewotolok remains at Alert Level II (Waspada). Volcanology authorities have urged residents and tourists to refrain from any activities within a two-kilometer radius of the crater center. The public is advised to remain alert to the potential threats of hot clouds and lava avalanches, particularly in the southern, southeastern, western, and northeastern sectors.
For information, the volcano, known locally as Ile Ape, has a long history of volcanic activity recorded since 1660. Given its history of eruptions that have caused damage in the past, close monitoring continues to be conducted to ensure the safety of residents around the slopes of the mountain.
