By : Lloyd Mahachi

A devastating volcanic eruption on the remote island of Flores in eastern Indonesia has claimed the lives of at least 10 people, with many more feared injured or missing. The eruption occurred at Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki around midnight on November 4, spewing thick brownish ash up to 2,000 meters into the air.

Hot ashes from the volcano hit several villages, burning down houses, including a convent of Catholic nuns. The volcanic material was thrown up to 6 kilometers from its crater, blanketing nearby villages and towns with tons of debris. Rescuers are still searching for bodies buried under collapsed houses.

Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for the National Disaster Management Agency, confirmed that all the bodies found so far, including a child, were within a 4-kilometer radius of the crater. Over 10,000 people have been affected in six villages of Wulanggitang District and four villages in Ile Bura district. Evacuation efforts are underway, with schools being prepared as temporary shelters.

The volcano’s alert status has been increased to its highest level, with the exclusion zone expanded to a 7-kilometer radius. This is Indonesia’s second volcanic eruption in as many weeks, following the eruption of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra province on October 27.

Indonesia is prone to earthquakes, landslides, and volcanic activity due to its location along the “Ring of Fire,” a series of seismic fault lines around the Pacific Ocean. The country has over 120 active volcanoes, making it a region of high volcanic activity.

Agusta Palma, head of the Saint Gabriel Foundation, confirmed the death of a nun and reported another missing. Muhammad Wafid, head of the Geology Agency, attributed the eruption to accumulated pressure due to a blockage of magma in the crater. Rescuers and aid teams are working to provide assistance to affected communities.

The situation remains volatile, with ongoing eruptions and the potential for further damage. The nearby Frans Seda Airport remains closed due to seismic activity, and the government is working to provide aid and support to those affected.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi