Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has declared significant measures following the catastrophic eruptions of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores Island, which have rocked local communities and caused tragic loss of life. On November 3, 2024, this active volcano exploded, resulting in eruptions so powerful they hurled flaming rocks and clouds of ash high above the surrounding villages. The disaster has led to at least ten fatalities, injuring over sixty others and destroying numerous homes.
Following these events, BNPB announced on November 6, 2024, their decision to permanently relocate thousands of families living within the hazardous seven-kilometer radius surrounding the crater. This response aims not only to safeguard residents against future eruptions but also to implement long-term mitigation strategies to prevent similar tragedies.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, part of Indonesia's infamous Pacific “Ring of Fire,” has demonstrated its volatile nature through multiple eruptions. The recent events began on November 4, when the volcano erupted three times, launching ash columns over two kilometers high. This volcanic activity continued for days, with more than 10,000 residents being impacted by the ash emissions and seismic tremors.
Local authorities quickly upgraded the volcano’s alert level to the highest tier within Indonesia’s four-tier warning system. Residents and tourists were urged to maintain distance, retreat from the area, and avoid activities near the volcano.
BNPB Chief Suharyanto articulated the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing the need for the evacuations. “This relocation is intended to protect our grandchildren from enduring similar catastrophes,” he stated, as measures were taken to provide necessary assistance to those affected. Many families are currently living in evacuation centers or with relatives, and relief efforts are underway to fulfill their basic needs.
The government has indicated their commitment to aid the relocation process, whether through facilitating the move to new locations or supporting families to build new homes on their existing land. The spokesperson for BNPB, Abdul Muhari, reiterated the importance of such preparations, highlighting the necessity for communities to be ready for any future volcanic activities.
With Mount Lewotobi being one of Indonesia's 127 active volcanoes, the nation has had to adapt to its inherent geological challenges. Indonesia's unique geographical position along the Pacific Ring of Fire subjects it to both volcanic and seismic activities regularly.
Eyewitness accounts from local residents captured the chaos and terror of the volcanic eruptions. One resident, Hermanus Mite, recalled the moment of eruption, saying, “I saw flames coming out and immediately fled. There were ashes and stones everywhere.” The panic among residents led to many quickly evacuate their homes, with communal shelters serving as temporary refuge from the falling debris.
Fortunately, since the initial catastrophe, local search and rescue teams have been diligently scouring the area to safeguard against any additional casualties or injuries. Fortunately, as of the latest reports, no additional residents were found missing.
Authorities plan to oversee the permanent relocations with utmost care, ensuring displaced families receive the necessary resources for their transition. The experience emphasizes the vulnerability of residents living close to active volcanic sites and highlights the increasing importance of disaster preparedness and community resilience.
The eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki serves as another reminder of nature's power and the urgent need for comprehensive disaster management and response strategies. With thousands now set to start anew, the focus will inevitably turn toward rebuilding lives and reinforcing the region’s preparedness for any future geophysical events.
