JAKARTA, Waspada.co.id – Mount Lewotobi Laki in East Flores Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, experienced two eruptions on Sunday (10/11) afternoon.
The first eruption occurred at around 14.49 WITA with the intensity of the ash column reaching up to 1,000 meters above the top of the mountain, which is at an altitude of around 2,584 meters above sea level.
This eruption was observed with a maximum seismic amplitude of 14.8 mm and lasted for one minute 24 seconds.
According to the Head of the Mount Lewotobi Male Observation Post, Herman Yosef Mboro, the eruption activity did not stop there.
At 15.17 WITA, the volcano erupted again with similar intensity, producing a column of ash as high as one kilometer and a maximum amplitude of 7.4 mm recorded on the seismogram, with a duration of around two minutes and 10 seconds.
Apart from these two eruptions, from morning to noon from 06.00 to 12.00 WITA, four other eruptions occurred with amplitude variations of 7.4-29.6 mm and earthquake durations ranging from 578 to 1830 seconds.
Currently, Mount Lewotobi Men is at Level IV or alert status.
Under these conditions, the authorities appealed to the public not to carry out activities within a radius of seven kilometers from the center of the eruption, as well as a sector of nine kilometers from the southwest to the northwest to avoid possible risks. (wool/kompastv/ryp/d2)
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Volcanologist Dr. Anisa Santosa
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Dr. Santosa. Thank you for joining us today. The volcanic activity at Mount Lewotobi Laki in East Flores has certainly caught the attention of many. Can you give us an overview of what occurred during the recent eruptions?
Dr. Anisa Santosa: Good afternoon! Yes, the recent eruptions on Sunday were quite significant. Mount Lewotobi Laki experienced two explosions, which is noteworthy considering the region’s volcanic history. This type of activity can indicate a buildup of magma and other volcanic gases beneath the surface.
Time.news Editor: That sounds alarming. What exactly caused these eruptions?
Dr. Anisa Santosa: Eruptions like these are usually related to the movement of tectonic plates and the subsequent pressure on the magma chamber below the volcano. In the case of Mount Lewotobi Laki, it is part of the volcanic arc formed by the ongoing subduction of the Indo-Australian Plate beneath the Eurasian Plate. The geological activity in this area is quite frequent due to these tectonic shifts.
Time.news Editor: I see. Many people living in the vicinity might feel anxious about the implications of these eruptions. What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the local residents?
Dr. Anisa Santosa: Local authorities typically have preparedness protocols in place, including monitoring the volcano through scientific observation and communication with the community. When eruptions occur, evacuation plans are activated based on the volcanic activity levels. It’s critical for residents to stay informed and heed warning signals from the geological services.
Time.news Editor: How does the monitoring process work? What kind of indicators do scientists look for before an eruption?
Dr. Anisa Santosa: Great question! Scientists monitor a variety of geological indicators such as seismic activity, volcanic gas emissions, and ground deformation. For example, an increase in earthquakes around a volcano can indicate that magma is moving closer to the surface, which could precede an eruption. Monitoring these signs allows us to create predictive models to assess the potential for future eruptions.
Time.news Editor: With such advanced monitoring technology, how often do predictions prove to be accurate?
Dr. Anisa Santosa: Generally, we have made significant strides in volcanic monitoring, which allows for more accurate predictions. However, predicting the exact timing and scale of an eruption remains a challenge due to the complex nature of volcanology. Past instances have shown that some eruptions can be forecasted successfully while others can occur unexpectedly.
Time.news Editor: That’s fascinating, albeit a bit unsettling! Lastly, given the current eruption activity at Mount Lewotobi Laki, what advice would you give to the residents and travelers in the area?
Dr. Anisa Santosa: I’d advise residents to stay updated through local authorities and geological services for real-time information. Travelers should also heed any travel advisories and respect the evacuation protocols if they are issued. Moreover, being prepared with an emergency kit and understanding the evacuation routes can make a significant difference in ensuring their safety.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Santosa, for enlightening us about the situation at Mount Lewotobi Laki. It’s vital for everyone to understand the importance of preparedness and monitoring.
Dr. Anisa Santosa: Thank you for having me! It’s essential we keep the dialogue going about volcanic safety and awareness.