15 Mar 2021 | 08:36 AM UTC
Indonesia: Further volcanic activity may occur at Mount Lewotolok in East Nusa Tenggara as of March 15
Additional volcanic activity possible at Mount Lewotolok in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, as of March 15. Transport disruptions possible.
Event
Additional volcanic activity may occur at Mount Lewotolok in Lembata Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province as of March 15, after it erupted at around 17:18 March 14. The eruption produced ash plumes as high as 1.3 km (0.8 miles). Authorities have recommended against any activity within 3 km (1.8 miles) from the crater. Officials may issue evacuation orders in the coming days or weeks if the volcanic activity increases.
Flight disruptions may affect Wonopito Airport (LWE) if large eruptions occur and produce significant ashfall that forces planes to detour around ash clouds. Authorities may impose ground travel restrictions along roads in affected areas, as the ash could reduce visibility and make streets slippery. Localized ground traffic disruptions are possible.
Health
Volcanic activity may impact air quality in the areas of East Nusa Tenggara Province surrounding Mount Lewotolok. Air quality could become a concern, particularly in areas near the crater, following an explosive event. Individuals in the region - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancers - may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion.
The volcano is around 210 km (130 miles) north of Kupang.
Advice
In the event of further eruptions, contact airlines for updated flight information; confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport. Try to avoid areas with heavy ash accumulations. If operating in areas affected by the ash cloud, consider remaining indoors in air-conditioned facilities when possible. Those who must be outdoors should use facemasks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation. Drive defensively; seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas close to the volcano. Heed all official orders.
