Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located in Flores Timur Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia, is currently on alert level IV due to heightened volcanic activity, as reported by local observation posts. According to Herman Yosef S Mboro, an officer at the Lewotobi Laki-laki Volcano Observation Post, the volcano has been exhibiting significant seismic activity over the past several hours.
On Saturday, March 22, 2025, Mboro described the volcano's visible conditions in his report covering the period from 06:00 - 12:00 Wita. "Pengamatan visual Gunung api terlihat jelas hingga tertutup Kabut 0-II. Teramati asap kawah utama berwarna putih dengan intensitas sedang hingga tebal tinggi sekitar 100-200 meter dari puncak," he stated. The observation highlighted that the white smoke from the main crater was being emitted at a height of approximately 100-200 meters above the summit. The weather conditions noted were generally clear, albeit occasionally cloudy, with weak winds blowing towards the north and northeast, and the air temperature was recorded at 29-30°C.
During the same reporting period, there were seven recorded instances of emissions earthquakes, characterized by a varying amplitude ranging from 2.9 to 7.4 mm, with durations between 40 to 122 seconds. Additionally, a harmonic tremor was reported, having an amplitude of 2.9 mm and lasting 104 seconds, alongside one deep volcanic earthquake and one local tectonic earthquake.
Earlier in the day, Yohanes Kolli Sorywutun, another officer at the observation post, reported on the conditions from 00:00 to 06:00 Wita. His findings confirmed that Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki has reached alert level IV, or Awas, which prompts immediate awareness for the surrounding communities. He remarked, "pengamatan visual Gunung api terlihat jelas hingga tertutup Kabut 0-I. Teramati asap kawah utama berwarna putih dengan intensitas tipis hingga sedang tinggi sekitar 200-500 meter dari puncak." This observation suggested similar emissions but noted differences in intensity when compared to Mboro's later report.
The volcano's height is listed at 1584 meters above sea level, and it is crucial for locals and visitors to heed safety recommendations from the authorities. Authorities have advised that no activities should be conducted within a 7 km radius from the eruption center, and for the southwest, north, and northeast sectors, this radius extends to 8 km. It’s imperative that residents maintain their calm and follow directions from local governments to avoid panic, especially regarding unclear information surrounding the volcano’s activity.
Furthermore, residents are urged to be cautious of potential lahar flooding in rivers that originate from the summit, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall such as Dulipali, Padang Pasir, Nobo, Klatanlo, Hokeng Jaya, Boru, and Nawakote. In light of potential ashfall, people are also recommended to wear masks or coverings to protect their respiratory systems from volcanic ash.
The local government has consistently coordinated with the Lewotobi Laki-laki Observation Post in Pululera Village, Wulanggitang District, and the Geological Disaster Mitigation Center in Bandung. Continuous communication has been established between these agencies and local disaster response teams to ensure accurate information dissemination regarding the volcano's activities. As noted, for further information, residents can reach out to the observation post or the Geological Disaster Mitigation Center at the contact number provided.
In conclusion, the recent status change of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of awareness and preparedness in regions susceptible to volcanic activity. As the local population remains informed and adheres to guidance from authorities, they will be better equipped to respond effectively in the face of geological phenomena.
