The Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano in south-central Indonesia erupted three times on March 21, 2025, sending an ash column soaring 800 meters into the sky and prompting authorities to expand the danger zone around the volcano.
This latest eruption follows a period of heightened seismic activity on the island of Flores, where over the past week, hundreds of earthquakes were reported, leading officials to raise the eruption alert to its highest level.
The eruption, which occurred on the remote island of Flores in East Nusa Tenggara province, was characterized by an explosion that could be heard as far away as Larantuka and Maumere, cities approximately 30 and 53 miles from the volcano. The ash cloud posed significant risks not only to local residents but also affected travel, resulting in several airlines canceling flights between Australia and Bali, a popular tourist destination nearly 800 kilometers away.
According to Indonesia's Geological Agency, on Friday, March 21, thick gray clouds emanated from the crater, with the ash covering streets and plantations nearby. Local eyewitnesses described the scene vividly, with one resident, Maria Magdalena from Nurabelen village, stating, "They were all guarding the cornfield when the volcano erupted. And when they ran together with the hot lava that started to fall, it injured their legs and backs." The injuries occurred as residents scrambled to protect themselves from falling ash.
Authorities expanded the exclusion zone from 7 kilometers to 8 kilometers around the volcano, as they also warned residents to remain cautious amid predictions of heavy rainfall leading to potential mudslides.
As of the latest reports, Indonesia's disaster management agency indicated that more than 4,700 residents have been evacuated from the surrounding areas. While the situation remains critical, local officials have yet to issue new evacuation orders although many are on high alert.
In another tragic instance, a previous eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki in November 2024 resulted in the deaths of nine people and injuries to dozens more. The volcano is known to be a twin with Mount Lewotobi Perempuan, with a combined height of over 1,700 meters. This increased geological activity is of particular concern in Indonesia, which hosts nearly 130 active volcanoes as part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, the world’s most geologically active region.
In light of this developing story, Indonesia’s authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. As residents remain vigilant, emergency agencies are coordinating response efforts to ensure public safety while reviewing potential relocation plans for communities in the affected area.
