Indonesian volcano erupts again, sends ash column 5,000 meters skyward

ANKARA

A volcano in Indonesia again erupted, spewing volcanic ash up to 5,000 meters high from its crater as authorities widened an exclusion zone, state-run media reported on Friday.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, erupted again on Thursday, according to Antara News.

The eruption was observed at a height of approximately 6,584 meters above sea level, with the ash column leaning toward the Southwest, West, and Northwest directions. The eruption also produced hot clouds with an amplitude of 47.3 millimeters, the media outlet said.

Local authorities also widened an exclusion zone and advised the local community and visitors not to conduct any activities within a 7-kilometer (4.3-mile) radius of the peak.

The people were also advised to wear masks to avoid the negative effects of the volcanic ash.

The Indonesian government has evacuated thousands of people from areas affected by the ongoing eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki.

So far, at least 10 people have died as a result of the eruption, including a nun, and one is still missing. Lava flows have damaged several structures, including a monastery, and rescue workers are searching for more victims.

Since Monday, after its initial burst, the eruption has impacted six villages in the Wulanggitang district and four in Ile Bura district, affecting an estimated 10,000 people. Authorities have raised the alert level for Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki to its highest point as the volcano has been emitting thick brown ash columns up to 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) daily for the past week.

Indonesia, which lies along the "Pacific Ring of Fire," has 130 active volcanoes, making it one of the world's most seismically active countries.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid