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Deadly Indonesia Volcano Eruption Destroys Homes, Kills Nine
A devastating volcanic eruption on Indonesia’s remote island of Flores has claimed at least nine lives and destroyed numerous homes, according to Indonesia’s Disaster Management Agency.
The eruption, originating from Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki, intensified on Monday, prompting authorities to raise the danger level and widen the exclusion zone surrounding the volcano.
Following an escalation in volcanic activity, Indonesia’s volcanology agency increased Mount Lewotobi’s alert status to the highest level, expanding the danger zone to a 7-kilometer (4.3-mile) radius. The eruptions have been ongoing since last Thursday, sending plumes of thick brownish ash up to 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) into the air.
Homes and Convent Destroyed in Lava Flow
In the early hours of Monday, hot ash from Mount Lewotobi engulfed a nearby village, setting multiple structures ablaze, including a convent of Catholic nuns. Firman Yosef, an official at the Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki monitoring post, reported that the midnight eruption was particularly severe, as thick ash blanketed the area and lava flows reached residential areas.
Heightened Alert and Evacuations
With the intensified eruption, Indonesia’s disaster response teams are on high alert, coordinating evacuations and monitoring the situation closely. Officials fear the possibility of additional casualties and property loss as the volcano shows no signs of abating. Residents within the expanded exclusion zone are being urged to evacuate as ash clouds and pyroclastic flows pose serious risks.
The ongoing volcanic activity on Flores has placed a strain on local resources, with emergency services working tirelessly to ensure the safety of affected communities and prevent further loss of life.
