Mount Lewotobi Laki‑Laki on Flores Island in Bali erupted yesterday, sending a towering ash plume more than 6.8 miles into the sky. Authorities raised the alert to the highest level, warning of ongoing tremors and advising residents and visitors to stay away from the crater area.
Flight Disruptions
Over 30 flights to and from Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport have been cancelled or delayed, affecting more than 14,000 passengers, according to the airport’s data.
Airlines impacted include Singapore Airlines, Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia, Air India, Qantas/Jetstar and Juneyao Airlines. Local airports in East Nusa Tenggara—such as Maumere (Fransiskus Xaverius Seda)—have been closed temporarily, with one scheduled to remain shut through Thursday.
Two villages close to the volcano have been evacuated amid ash and debris contamination; others are experiencing “ash rain.” Residents are wearing masks and preparing for potential mudflows triggered by rainfall mixing with volcanic ash.
Mount Lewotobi Laki‑Laki is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, part of the Ring of Fire. Its last major eruption occurred in May, and a deadly eruption in November 2024 claimed nine lives and displaced thousands.
Ash clouds are expected to dissipate by late tonight, but airspace remains under careful observation. Travelers are urged to check with airlines for updates and adhere to local safety directives.
