Mount Ili Lewotolok Erupts, Spewing Lava 300 Metres from Peak

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) reported that the eruption of Mount Ili Lewotolok in Lembata Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, which occurred last night, spewed volcanic lava up to 300 metres southeast from the eruption centre.

The Head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria, stated in Jakarta, early Friday, that the height of the ash column was observed at approximately 250 metres above the peak, or about 1,673 metres above sea level.

The ash column was grey to black in colour, with moderate to thick intensity, and drifted eastward.

In addition to the ash column, lava was observed spewing towards the southeast sector, approximately 300 metres from the eruption centre.

“This eruption was recorded on the seismograph with a maximum amplitude of 21.2 mm and a duration of approximately 33 seconds,” she said.

However, Mount Ili Lewotolok is currently still at Level II (Alert).

The public is also advised to be aware of the potential hazards of lava flows or landslides and hot clouds in the southern and southeastern sectors, the western sector, and the northeastern sector of the mountain.

In addition, residents are advised to use protective masks for their mouths and noses, as well as other equipment to protect their eyes and skin, to avoid respiratory problems and other health impacts from volcanic ash, and to cover clean water reservoirs to prevent ash contamination.

Local governments and communities are asked to continue coordinating with the Mount Ili Lewotolok Observation Post in Laranwutun Village, Ile Ape District, and the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) of the Geological Agency in Bandung, West Java, to obtain the latest information regarding the mountain’s activity.