Dramatic Eruption: Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki Unleashes Ash Cloud over Indonesia

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in Indonesia erupted, ejecting ash 10 km into the atmosphere, prompting authorities to raise the alert level to its highest. The volcano, located in East Nusa Tenggara, forced evacuations and disrupted operations at a local airport. The Pacific 'Ring of Fire' is the backdrop to this event.

In a dramatic display of nature's power, Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki erupted on Wednesday, sending volcanic ash 10 kilometers into the sky. The country's volcanology agency has responded by elevating the alert system to the highest level, as communities brace for potential further activity.

Situated in East Nusa Tenggara province, the volcano erupted twice—a nine-minute outburst at 1:35 a.m., followed by another at 9:21 a.m., sending ash 8 kilometers high. These events prompted a rapid response from local authorities, evacuating dozens of residents and cautioning against potential volcanic mudflows amid forecasts of rain.

The aftermath has led to the closure of Fransiskus Xaverius Seda airport and the reminder of past volcanic activity in the region. Despite historical disruptions, flights to Bali remain unaffected. As part of the Pacific 'Ring of Fire,' Indonesia's seismic landscape underscores the perpetual presence of volcanoes.

(With inputs from agencies.)