Bali Flights Disrupted as Indonesia’s Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano Erupts, Triggers Highest Alert

Indonesia's Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano erupted late Thursday night, sending thick ash clouds soaring up to 8 km (5 miles) into the sky. The powerful eruption has led to flight disruptions, raised emergency warnings to the highest level, and prompted officials to caution both residents and tourists in the affected areas.

Authorities Issue Highest Alert, Advise Evacuations

The country's Center for Volcanology and Geological Disaster Mitigation has warned against any activities within a 7-8 km (4.4-5 mile) radius in the southwest and northeast sectors of the volcano. Officials urged locals and visitors to remain cautious due to the potential dangers posed by further eruptions and falling ash.

"The ash column was observed to be grey to black with thick intensity," Indonesia's volcanology agency said in a statement about the eruption, which began at 10:56 p.m. local time (14:56 GMT) on Thursday.

No Immediate Damage, But Risks Remain

As of now, there have been no reports of immediate damage to nearby villages. However, authorities have warned of the possibility of volcanic mudflows, particularly as heavy rainfall is expected in the region. Volcanic mudflows, also known as lahars, can be extremely dangerous, carrying debris, ash, and water at high speeds.

Flights Cancelled, Travel Disruptions Reported

The eruption has caused significant travel disruptions, particularly for flights to and from Bali. Jetstar, the low-cost subsidiary of Australia's Qantas Airways, canceled multiple flights from Australia to the Indonesian holiday island on Friday morning due to concerns over volcanic ash. Flights were expected to resume later in the afternoon, depending on air conditions.

A spokesperson for Bali's airport confirmed that while the airport remains operational, at least seven international flights were canceled, and several domestic routes have faced delays.

Tsunami Warning Briefly Issued, Later Lifted

Following the eruption, the Japan Meteorological Agency briefly issued a tsunami warning, fearing that volcanic activity could trigger underwater disturbances. However, the warning was later lifted as no significant tsunami waves were detected.

Previous Eruption Caused Devastation

Lewotobi Laki-Laki is one of Indonesia's many active volcanoes, located in the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire. The volcano had previously erupted in November, killing at least 10 people and displacing thousands. Authorities continue to monitor its activity closely to prevent further casualties.

With the volcano still active and air travel impacted, authorities remain on high alert, urging caution among residents and travelers in the region.