Mount Lewotobi in Indonesia erupts, top flight alert issued

Jakarta, Nov 7 (IANS) Mount Lewotobi in Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province erupted again on Thursday, spewing a column of ash up to 5,000 metres high and prompting the highest aviation alert, the Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Centre reported.

The eruption occurred at 10:48 a.m. local time, with ash dispersing to the west, southwest, and north of the crater.

Located in East Flores regency, Mount Lewotobi is on the highest alert level, with a designated danger zone extending 7 km from the crater, Xinhua news agency reported.

A Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation has been issued at the red level, the highest warning, prohibiting flights below 6,000 metres above and around the crater. Aircraft should also be prepared for ash clouds, which can disrupt flights.

Mount Lewotobi erupted late Sunday night, resulting in 10 fatalities, injuries to 63 people, and the displacement of over 4,000 residents. Hot clouds and volcanic materials destroyed hundreds of homes and buildings, triggering fires in the area.

Standing at 1,584 metres, Mount Lewotobi is one of Indonesia's 127 active volcanoes. The country, located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences frequent volcanic activity.

Earlier on Thursday, Mount Marapi in Indonesia's West Sumatra province erupted in the morning, sending a column of ash up to 800 metres into the air, according to the Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation Centre.

The eruption occurred at 8.54 a.m. Jakarta time, with ash dispersing to the east and northeast of the crater, Xinhua news agency reported.

Residents have been warned to avoid activities within a 4.5-kilometre radius of the crater. Those living along rivers that originate on the volcano's slopes are advised to stay alert for possible lava flows during heavy rains.

--IANS

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