The eruption of the Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano on the island of Flores, Indonesia, killed at least 10 people and caused devastation in surrounding villages.
Volcanic activity began before midnight, sending flaming rocks and ash toward local communities. Given the emergency, the authorities evacuated neighboring towns and activated the alert at its maximum level due to the seriousness of the situation.
Through a press conference, Abdul Muhari, spokesman for the country’s disaster mitigation agency (BNPB), said that 10,295 people were affected, although the number of evacuees is still being evaluated.
different local media reported that five villages were evacuated, buildings near the volcano were covered in thick ash, some others collapsed due to falling volcanic debris, and several wooden houses caught fire.
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Interview with Dr. Maria Santosa, Volcanologist and Disaster Management Expert, on the Recent Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano Eruption
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Santosa. The recent eruption of the Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano on Flores Island has been devastating. Can you summarize the key events and impact of this eruption?
Dr. Maria Santosa: Certainly. The eruption started late at night, unleashing flaming rocks and ash that severely impacted surrounding communities. Tragically, it has resulted in the loss of at least 10 lives, and the local disaster mitigation agency, BNPB, reports that over 10,000 people have been affected. The situation is dire, leading to the evacuation of five villages, and significant structural damage has occurred, including buildings near the volcano being buried under thick ash and some collapsing due to volcanic debris.
Time.news Editor: That’s heart-wrenching. What measures are being taken to manage this situation?
Dr. Maria Santosa: The authorities have activated the alert level to its maximum, which is a critical step in disaster response. This includes the evacuation of nearby towns and ongoing assessments of the number of evacuees. The immediate focus is on ensuring the safety of residents and providing them with the necessary support, which involves temporary shelters and essential supplies.
Time.news Editor: It’s a challenging situation. What can the local community do to prepare for such volcanic eruptions in the future?
Dr. Maria Santosa: Community preparedness is crucial in areas prone to volcanic activity. First and foremost, education about volcanic risks is vital. Residents should receive training on evacuation procedures and have a personal emergency plan. It’s also important to have supplies ready—such as food, water, and medical kits—in case of an evacuation. Collaborating with local disaster management agencies to conduct drills can greatly enhance readiness.
Time.news Editor: Given your expertise, what implications does this eruption have for volcanic monitoring and risk assessment in Indonesia?
Dr. Maria Santosa: This incident underscores the need for enhanced volcanic monitoring systems in Indonesia, which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. Improved technology for real-time monitoring can help predict eruptions more accurately. Moreover, conducting comprehensive risk assessments for vulnerable areas will aid in optimizing evacuation plans and preparation strategies.
Time.news Editor: That’s insightful. Lastly, what message would you like to convey to our readers regarding volcanic eruptions and disaster preparedness?
Dr. Maria Santosa: I urge everyone living in volcanic regions to take preparedness seriously. Stay informed about volcanic activity, follow local authority directives, and participate in community awareness programs. Having a proactive approach can save lives and minimize damage in the unfortunate event of an eruption. Remember, being prepared is not just about having supplies; it’s about being informed and ready to act swiftly.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Santosa, for sharing your expert insights on the Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano eruption. Your advice will undoubtedly help many readers understand the importance of disaster preparedness.
Dr. Maria Santosa: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this crucial topic. It’s vital that we continue to raise awareness about volcanic hazards and the importance of community resilience.