Mount Ili Lewotolok Erupts Expelling Ash 300 Metres High

Mount Ili Lewotolok volcano in East Nusa Tenggara erupted on Monday, 16 March at 11:09 local time, expelling volcanic ash to a height of 300 metres.

According to an official report from Stanislaus Ara Kian, the monitoring officer at Mount Ili Lewotolok observation post, dark-coloured ash columns spread rapidly eastward, altering the skyline across the surrounding volcanic region.

Seismograph data recorded vibrations from the eruption with a maximum amplitude of 6.3 millimetres lasting approximately 40 seconds, indicating substantial volcanic activity.

Authorities have issued strict prohibitions against anyone entering or conducting activities within a 2-kilometre radius from the eruption centre. This prohibition applies to local residents, visitors, and climbers intending to ascend the mountain.

“We must remain vigilant as there is potential danger including lava flows, landslides, and pyroclastic flows that could occur at any time,” stated Stanislaus in an official statement.

The monitoring officer also highlighted that the south-south-eastern, western, and north-eastern sectors require particular attention due to elevated risk levels.

Residents living around Mount Ili Lewotolok have been advised to take precautionary measures, including: wearing protective masks when conducting activities outside their homes; protecting eyes and skin with eyeglasses and closed clothing; securely sealing all water storage containers to prevent volcanic ash contamination; and remaining alert to potential respiratory problems or acute respiratory infections, seeking immediate medical attention should health issues arise.