64 people were injured, including one in a critical condition and 31 in a serious condition, and seven schools and 23 houses were damagedstated the latest report from the regional disaster management agency BPBD.
The Lucky Lewotobi volcanowhich erupted several times on Sunday night and early Monday morning, located on the Indonesian island of Flores, very popular among tourists. Ash and lava from the volcano were thrown towards nearby villages, which had to be evacuated.
The authorities raised the state of alert in the area to level 4, the highest level, established an exclusion radius of approximately seven kilometers around the volcano, which is 1,584 meters high, and warned of the risk of flooding in the area due to precipitation.
There are eight centers, with a total population estimated at 16 thousand inhabitants, within the exclusion zone, according to official data.
Indonesia is located in the so-called “ring of fire” of the Pacific Ocean, an area of major seismic and volcanic activity that records around seven thousand earthquakes per year, most of them of low magnitude.
Interview with Dr. Sarah Montero: Insights on the Lucky Lewotobi Volcano Eruption
Editor of Time.news (E): Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Montero. With the recent eruption of the Lucky Lewotobi volcano on Flores Island, can you provide a brief overview of the situation?
Dr. Sarah Montero (M): Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The eruption on Sunday night and early Monday morning has caused significant disruption. According to the regional disaster management agency, there have been 64 reported injuries, with one person in critical condition and 31 others seriously hurt. Additionally, seven schools and 23 houses sustained damage, highlighting the eruption’s impact on local communities.
E: That’s quite alarming. What immediate actions were taken by the authorities in response to this volcanic activity?
M: The authorities raised the alert level to 4, which is the highest state of emergency. They established a 7-kilometer exclusion zone around the volcano, effectively evacuating nearby villages to ensure the safety of residents. Given the possibility of flooding due to precipitation, these measures are crucial for minimizing further risks.
E: Indonesia is known as part of the “Ring of Fire.” How does this geological characteristic influence volcanic activity in the region?
M: The “Ring of Fire” is an area in the Pacific Ocean characterized by high seismic and volcanic activity. Indonesia alone experiences around 7,000 earthquakes annually, most of which are of low magnitude. However, the nation is home to numerous active volcanoes, and eruptions like that of Lucky Lewotobi remind us of the constant threat posed by these natural phenomena. The geological setting makes it imperative for residents and local governments to be prepared for such events.
E: With around 16,000 people living in the exclusion zone, what are the implications for community preparedness and disaster response?
M: It emphasizes the necessity for effective disaster preparedness and response strategies. Communities in high-risk areas must have clear evacuation plans and access to resources. Regular drills, education about volcanic hazards, and establishing local emergency response teams are vital. The increase in injuries and damage to infrastructure indicates a need for improved communication and preparedness at all levels.
E: What practical advice would you give to residents living near active volcanoes, especially in light of this recent eruption?
M: First and foremost, stay informed about the alerts issued by local authorities. Prepare an emergency kit including essentials like food, water, and medical supplies. Residents should also have a clear evacuation plan and know multiple routes to safety—even if the volcano has been quiet. Education on volcanic activity, signs of an impending eruption, and understanding local emergency protocols are key components for survival.
E: Thank you, Dr. Montero, for sharing these insights. It’s crucial for our readers to understand the implications of volcanic activity and how to stay safe.
M: Thank you for having me. It’s important for everyone, especially those in vulnerable regions, to stay alert and prepared.