Mount Lewotolok Eruption: Incandescent Material Ejected

Mount Ile Lewotolok Eruption Prompts Evacuation orders in East Nusa Tenggara

A volcanic eruption at Mount Ile lewotolok in Lembata Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), has triggered heightened alert levels and evacuation recommendations for nearby communities. The eruption, which occurred at 7:45 PM local time on Saturday, January 17, 2026, sent an ash column approximately 300 meters above the peak – reaching an altitude of 1,723 meters above sea level.

Recent Volcanic Activity & Current Threat Level

Mount Ile Lewotolok, currently at Alert Level II, exhibited meaningful activity in the 24 hours preceding Saturday’s eruption. According to reports, the volcano erupted 277 times between 6:00 AM and midnight on Friday, January 16, with lava flows extending 100 meters from the crater rim. The emitted smoke varied in color, ranging from white to gray and black.

The latest eruption was accompanied by the ejection of incandescent material into the southeastern sector, extending 200 meters from the center of activity. Lava flows where also observed in the western sector, reaching as far as 100 meters from the crater rim.

Did you know? – Mount Ile Lewotolok is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes. It’s part of the Sunda Arc, a region known for frequent volcanic activity due to the subduction of the Indo-Australian Plate.

Evacuation Zones & safety Recommendations

A senior official urged residents in the vicinity of Mount Ile Lewotolok to avoid all activity within a 2-kilometer radius of the eruption center. Furthermore, residents were advised to refrain from activities in the south-southeast and western sectors extending up to 2.5 kilometers from the volcano’s activity center.

“Be aware of the potential threat of lava avalanches and hot clouds in the southern and southeastern sectors, western sector and northeastern sector of Mount Ile lewotolok,” the official stated. Residents were also cautioned not to panic if they experience rumbling or booming sounds emanating from the crater, explaining that these sounds are characteristic of an active eruption.

Impact on Local Communities

The ash column from the earlier eruption on Saturday, observed at 9:09 AM local time, reached a height of 500 meters above the peak and drifted eastward, resulting in volcanic ash rain in the East Ile Ape District and several villages in the Omesuri District. This ashfall has disrupted daily life and caused air pollution, impacting residents’ activities.

Pro tip – Volcanic ash can be harmful to respiratory systems and cause irritation. Residents should wear masks and eye protection during ashfall events, and stay indoors if possible.

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The situation remains dynamic, and authorities continue to monitor Mount Ile Lewotolok closely for further developments. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and heed all official warnings and evacuation orders to ensure their safety.

Reader question – What are your experiences during volcanic eruptions? Share your thoughts on how communities can best prepare for these natural events.

Why: Mount Ile Lewotolok erupted, prompting evacuation orders.
Who: residents near Mount Ile Lewotolok in Lembata Regency,East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) are affected. Authorities are monitoring the situation and issuing warnings.
What: The volcano erupted on January 17, 2026, sending an ash column 300 meters above the peak and ejecting incandescent material and lava flows. Alert Level II is in effect.
How did it end?: As of this report, the eruption is ongoing, and the situation is dynamic. Authorities are continuing to monitor the volcano and provide updates. The article does not indicate a definitive end to the eruption, but emphasizes ongoing monitoring and safety precautions.