Repeated Lewotobi Laki-laki eruptions shut down Maumere airport
Five domestic flights were affected, while residents were told to stay 5 km from the crater and watch for lahar floods.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in Flores Timur, Nusa Tenggara Timur, erupted repeatedly on Friday, with one ash column reaching 2.5 kilometers above the summit and forcing the closure of Maumere Airport. The Volcano Observation Post recorded eruptions from the early hours, then again in the morning, afternoon and evening. The 11.15 WITA eruption hurled volcanic material 2,500 meters high, while the 18.22 WITA evening eruption sent ash about 1,500 meters into the air and was accompanied by rumbling sounds. The 1,584-meter mountain remains at Level III, or Siaga. Authorities barred activity within a 5-kilometer radius of the crater and asked residents along river channels originating on the mountain to remain alert for lahar floods during heavy rain. Residents exposed to ashfall were also told to wear masks.