Mount Lewotobi Erupts, Alerts Issued in East Nusa Tenggara

Mount Lewotobi, a volcano located in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, has erupted, spewing ash up to 3,500 meters into the sky. The Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Agency reported the event, prompting safety measures. Authorities have issued warnings for air traffic and safety recommendations for residents. Grizzly gray-black ash clouds have spread west and northwest of the crater. A Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) was issued at the orange level, the second-highest alert. Aircraft are prohibited from flying below 5,000 meters near the volcano. Pilots are advised to watch for ash clouds that could disrupt flights. A safety warning has also been issued for local residents, visitors, and tourists. All activities within a six-kilometer radius of the crater are prohibited. Residents living near rivers are warned of potential flash floods due to the eruption and heavy rains. They are advised to wear masks and protect their mouths and noses from potentially dangerous volcanic ash. Mount Lewotobi, at 1,584 meters, is one of Indonesia's 127 active volcanoes.