28 Feb 2024 | 10:13 AM UTC
Indonesia: Increased volcanic activity ongoing at Mount Ile Lewotolok on Lembata Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province, as of Feb. 28
Increased volcanic activity at Mount Ile Lewotolok in East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia, as of Feb. 28. Authorities raise alert level.
Increased volcanic activity has been observed at Mount Ile Leotolok, located on Lembata Island in East Nusa Tenggara Province, as Feb. 28. Ash plumes have risen to 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) from the crater, while lava flows have been observed up to 2 km (1.2 miles) to the southeast of the volcano Feb. 26-27.
Authorities have raised the volcano alert level to Level 3 (Standby) alert (the second-highest level on a four-tier scale) for Mount Ile Lewotolok Feb. 27. An exclusion zone of 2 km (1.2 miles) is in place around the crater, extended to 4 km (2.5 miles) in the southern and southeastern sectors. Residents in surrounding villages have been advised to remain vigilant due to potential ash fall and lava flows in the vicinity of the volcano. Residents in the village of Jontona to the south of the volcano have been advised to evacuate.
Plan for possible transport disruptions in the surrounding area, especially if a significant eruptive event occurs. Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of significant ashfall, and visibility could be reduced. Officials might close roads near the volcano depending on the presence of hazardous volcanic material. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace; as of Feb. 28, flights at Wunopito Airport (LWE) in Lewoleba were operating normally. Authorities might temporarily close airport facilities if significant ashfall accumulations occur.
Volcanic activity may impact air quality in areas of East Nusa Tenggara Province surrounding Mount Ile Lewotolok, especially on Lembata Island. Following an explosive event, air quality could become a concern, particularly in areas near the crater. Individuals in the region - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - may experience difficulty breathing and lower tolerance to physical exertion.
Confirm flights if eruptive activity continues. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating near Mount Ile Lewotolok in the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry masks or face coverings and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.
