Indonesia's Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano erupts twice, sending ash clouds into sky

By Zeynep Katre Oran

The Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano in East Flores, Indonesia, erupted twice within a single day, releasing ash and smoke clouds into the atmosphere, the state-run media reported on Saturday.

The first eruption occurred at 11:04 a.m. local time, lasting approximately 11 minutes, followed by a second eruption at 2:41 p.m., which continued for over 10 minutes, Antara News Agency said, citing the Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation (PVMBG).

Both eruptions propelled ash to an altitude of around 900 meters, the report added.

PVMBG officials have issued a warning for residents to avoid approaching the volcano within a 3-kilometer radius due to potential hazards.

They also advised the public to refrain from outdoor activities because of the ash and smoke clouds affecting the area.

Indonesia, located on the Ring of Fire - a zone of high seismic and volcanic activity in the Pacific Ocean - is home to approximately 130 active volcanoes.