Indonesian volcano spews massive ash cloud as it erupts again

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, a volcano located on the Indonesian island of Flores, has erupted again, sending a massive ash cloud as high as 18 kilometers into the sky. The eruption began on Monday morning, prompting thousands of residents to evacuate their homes for safety. Authorities have raised the alert for the volcano to its highest level, warning that the situation remains dangerous. The eruption caused at least 24 flights to and from the nearby resort island of Bali to be canceled on Monday, although some flights resumed on Tuesday. According to Muhammad Wafid, the chief of Indonesia's geology agency, the ash column that rose on Monday was the highest seen from this volcano since November. He explained that such a large eruption increases the risk for people living nearby and for airplanes flying in the area. The eruption was so powerful that it created a loud, thunderous noise. In response, officials expanded the exclusion zone around the volcano to a 7-kilometer radius, meaning people must stay at least that far away from the central vent. There is also a risk of lahar floods, which are dangerous flows of mud and volcanic debris that can occur if heavy rain falls on the ash-covered land. The volcano erupted again on Monday night, sending more ash and lava up to 13 kilometers into the air. A third eruption happened early Tuesday morning, but it was less intense. Videos shared by residents show glowing red lava shooting from the volcano's peaks, while people hurriedly get into cars and buses to escape the danger. So far, more than 4,000 people have been evacuated from the area, according to the local disaster management agency. However, some residents have chosen to stay behind. These people are now facing shortages of clean water, food, and protective masks. Local authorities are concerned about the safety of those who remain, especially since the thick volcanic ash has covered the entire area. Paulus Sony Sang Tukan, the leader of Pululera village, which is about 8 kilometers from the volcano, said that emergency help is needed for those who have not left. He mentioned that while water is still available, there are worries about whether it is safe to drink because of possible contamination from the ash. Indonesia is located on the Pacific 'Ring of Fire,' a region known for frequent volcanic eruptions and earthquakes due to the movement of tectonic plates. Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki has erupted several times this year, but so far, there have been no reports of injuries or deaths from these recent eruptions. In the past, other volcanic eruptions in Indonesia have caused fatalities and forced thousands of people to flee their homes. The local disaster agency continues to monitor the situation closely and is working to provide aid to those affected. They are urging people to stay away from the exclusion zone and to follow safety instructions. The ongoing eruptions have made life difficult for many families in the area, but emergency teams are doing their best to help everyone stay safe and healthy. As the volcano continues to erupt, the risk of further ash clouds and possible lahar floods remains high, and authorities are prepared to respond to any new dangers that may arise.