On the morning of Tuesday, June 17, 2025, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, located on Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, erupted, releasing a massive ash cloud that reached 11 kilometers in height. The volcanic activity, recorded at 5:35 p.m. local time, prompted the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation to raise the alert level to the highest on the scale. Residents near rivers were advised to stay vigilant due to the risk of volcanic mudflows, while masks were recommended to prevent respiratory issues from ash inhalation. The event reignites concerns in a region marked by intense seismic activity, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
The eruption was observed by residents of Talibura village, who reported an orange, mushroom-shaped cloud enveloping nearby areas. The phenomenon, captured in videos and images, underscores the volcano’s power, which has caused tragic events in 2024.
- Immediate risks: Ash may cause respiratory issues and impair visibility.
- Threat of lahars: Heavy rains could trigger volcanic mudflows.
- Ongoing monitoring: Authorities maintain surveillance for further eruptions.
The event triggered a maximum alert, with authorities reinforcing safety measures to protect local residents and tourists on Flores, known for its natural beauty and Komodo National Park.
Intense volcanic activity
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, standing at 1,703 meters, is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. Located in the Wulanggitang subdistrict of East Flores, the volcano has a history of significant eruptions. In November 2024, a series of explosions killed nine people, injured 31, and forced the evacuation of over 11,000 residents. That event damaged more than 2,000 homes and led to the cancellation of international flights to Bali due to ash dispersal.
The June 17, 2025, eruption, according to the volcanology agency, produced an ash column reaching 11,584 meters above sea level, one of the highest recorded recently. The event’s intensity highlights the need for constant monitoring in a geologically unstable region.
Safety measures implemented
Indonesian authorities acted swiftly to mitigate risks. The Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation issued a statement warning of potential lava and mudflows, known as lahars, if heavy rains occur. Residents near waterways were instructed to remain vigilant, while the general population was advised to wear face masks to protect against volcanic ash.
- Exclusion zone: A 7 to 8-kilometer radius around the volcano was restricted.
- Mask usage: Essential to prevent respiratory issues.
- River monitoring: Risk of lahars concerns authorities.
- Tourist advisory: Visitors urged to avoid areas near the volcano.
No flight disruptions have been reported so far, but Flores’ proximity to Bali, about 800 kilometers away, keeps airlines on alert.
History of Lewotobi Laki-Laki eruptions
The volcano has shown its strength in several recent events. In March 2025, an eruption with an 8-kilometer ash column led to the cancellation of seven international flights to Bali, including Jetstar and AirAsia routes. The event, lasting over 11 minutes, produced booms heard more than 80 kilometers away in cities like Maumere and Larantuka.
In November 2024, the eruptions were even more devastating. Beyond the fatalities, volcanic activity damaged infrastructure and forced thousands to evacuate. Images from the time showed roofs destroyed by volcanic rocks and villages blanketed in ash.
The volcanology agency noted that Lewotobi Laki-Laki exhibits intermittent activity, with calm periods followed by intense explosions. This behavior demands a robust monitoring system to anticipate new events.
The Pacific Ring of Fire
Indonesia, with over 120 active volcanoes, lies in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region responsible for about 90% of the world’s earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The archipelago experiences thousands of tremors annually, mostly low-magnitude, but events like Lewotobi Laki-Laki’s highlight the power of geological forces at play.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki is one of 65 volcanoes classified as hazardous in the country. Its proximity to populated areas and tourist routes poses challenges for authorities, who must balance resident safety with preserving tourism, a major economic driver.
Impacts on the local population
Residents of nearby villages, such as Talibura and Lewolaga, reported tense moments during the eruption. The thick, orange ash cloud covered residential areas, reducing visibility and hindering movement. In previous events, like November 2024, homes were set ablaze by volcanic rocks, and entire communities needed relocation.
The 2025 eruption, though without immediate casualty reports, rekindles fear among locals. Many are still recovering from losses caused by the previous year’s eruptions, which destroyed properties and livelihoods.
- Challenges for residents:
- Loss of material possessions in prior eruptions.
- Constant risk of evacuation.
- Agricultural impact from ash coverage.
- Need for temporary shelters in case of new eruptions.
Local authorities declared states of emergency in past events, and the central government has provided humanitarian aid, including food and temporary shelters.
Monitoring and prevention
Indonesia’s volcanic monitoring system is among the most advanced in the region. Equipped with seismographs and satellite imagery, such as from the European Copernicus program, the Center for Volcanology can detect activity signals in advance. In November 2024, satellite images revealed a sulfur dioxide plume from Lewotobi Laki-Laki, aiding in predicting atmospheric impacts.
The agency also uses historical data to identify eruption patterns. In May 2025, the volcano recorded eight eruptions in a single weekend, sending ash up to 5.5 kilometers. These events underscore the importance of preventive measures, such as expanding exclusion zones and public education.
Threats to aviation
Volcanic eruptions pose a significant risk to aviation, especially in tourist hubs like Bali and Flores. Volcanic ash can damage aircraft engines and reduce visibility, leading to cancellations and delays. In March 2025, airlines like Jetstar, Qantas, and AirAsia suspended flights to Bali after a Lewotobi Laki-Laki eruption.
While no disruptions were confirmed on June 17, airport authorities in Bali and Maumere are monitoring the situation. The volcano’s proximity to key air routes requires coordination between geological agencies and airlines to ensure passenger safety.
Community vulnerability
Communities around Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki face ongoing challenges due to their location in a highly volcanic area. Villages like Pululera, Nawokote, and Hokeng Jaya, which suffered damage in 2024, are among the most vulnerable. Agriculture, the primary income source, is often harmed by ash fall, which contaminates crops and reduces yields.
In past events, the disaster mitigation agency (BNPB) reported difficulties evacuating residents, particularly due to some refusing to leave their homes. Awareness programs have been implemented to educate the population about risks and the importance of following official guidance.
Preparation for future events
Indonesia invests in cutting-edge technology to predict eruptions and minimize impacts. Beyond real-time monitoring, the country has trained rescue teams ready to act in crisis scenarios. The local Flores government, in partnership with national agencies, maintains contingency plans that include mask distribution, shelter construction, and relocation of at-risk communities.
The June 17, 2025, eruption serves as a reminder of nature’s power and the need for continuous preparedness. As long as Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki remains active, vigilance and cooperation among authorities, scientists, and residents will be crucial to protecting lives and livelihoods.
