Volcanic activity at Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in East Flores Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, increased again on Monday (6/7/2026) evening. The eruption, which occurred at around 18:55 WITA, spewed a volcanic ash column approximately 1,500 meters above the summit, accompanied by a rumbling sound loud enough to be heard by nearby residents.
According to reports from the Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano Observation Post (PGA), the thick gray ash column was observed moving north and northeast. Seismograph records showed a maximum amplitude of 29.6 mm with an eruption duration of about 125 seconds. Currently, the volcano's alert status remains at Level III (Siaga).
The impact of this eruption includes not only ashfall, but also falling sand and gravel raining down on several villages on the slopes of the mountain. Worsening weather conditions due to the dispersion of volcanic material even forced relevant authorities to temporarily close operations at two airports on Flores Island to ensure flight safety.
The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) along with local government officials have issued strict instructions for residents, visitors, and tourists to refrain from any activities within a five-kilometer radius of the eruption center. People in the affected zones are required to wear masks to prevent health problems, especially acute respiratory infections (ARI).
In addition to airborne hazards, communities living along riverbanks originating from Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki are urged to increase vigilance against the potential for rain-triggered lahar floods. Several villages identified in the hazard zone include Dulipali, Padang Pasir, Nobo, Nurabelen, Klatanlo, Hokeng Jaya, Boru, and Nawakote. Residents are expected to continue monitoring official updates and prepare independent evacuation plans should conditions around the foot of the mountain worsen.
