Major Eruption of Lewotobi Volcano Disrupts Flights in Indonesia

A significant volcanic eruption of Lewotobi volcano occurred last night in the eastern part of Flores Island. Although the volcano is far from Bali, a massive cloud of volcanic ash has caused flight delays even in Denpasar. Flights to and from China, Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, and Thailand have been postponed or canceled. If you have a scheduled flight, please check the airport’s website for updates.

The last eruption of this volcano caused delays for 90 flights.

Infrared satellite analysis shows that the volcanic ash has risen to 16.2 km (53,000 feet) above sea level and is moving westward—directly toward Bali. Additionally, lower-level emissions reaching 6.1 km (20,000 feet) above sea level are spreading southeast toward Flores.

Due to this powerful eruption, the aviation color code has been raised from orange to red. According to the Indonesian Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, from March 12 to March 18, the volcano showed increased activity, releasing dense gray ash clouds up to 2.5 km (8,200 feet) high. Seismic activity and tremors have recently intensified.

The eruption itself lasted approximately 11 minutes and 9 seconds, beginning at 10:56 PM local time. The ash cloud was described as gray-black and dense. Initial assessments have not reported immediate damage to nearby villages, but authorities have issued warnings about the possibility of a larger eruption.

This volcano is known for its frequent activity. Last year, it already caused travel disruptions. Moreover, that eruption resulted in 10 fatalities, and thousands of travelers were stranded due to airport closures.

Currently, an exclusion zone is being established within an 8-kilometer (5-mile) radius around the eruption site. Residents are urged to remain calm and follow official instructions. There is a risk of pyroclastic flows and lahars (mudflows). Even after cooling, volcanic ash remains dangerous, causing eye irritation and respiratory issues. If you are in the path of the ash cloud, wear a mask and protective eyewear.

So far, the ash has not reached Bali, but stay alert.

Sources: watchersnews, baliairport