Continuous ash emissions at Lewotobi volcano reach 6 700 m (22 000 feet) a.s.l., Indonesia

Volcanic ash from Lewotobi volcano in Indonesia was observed at 6 700 m (22 000 feet) above sea level at 19:40 UTC on October 14, 2025. The advisory was issued by the Darwin VAAC at 20:00 UTC on October 14, 2025.

According to the VAAC advisory, ash was observed within the surface to flight level 220 (up to 6 700 m or 22 000 feet). The ash plume was clearly discernible on Himawari-8 satellite imagery, remaining attached to the summit and becoming diffused as it moved north-northwest away from the volcano at approximately 19 km/h (12 mph). The current Aviation Color Code is Red. The advisory forecasts the plume detaching from the summit within 6 to 12 hours.

The Global Volcanism Program reports that during September 23–29, 2025, Lewotobi Laki-laki produced daily white-and-gray or gray ash plumes with variable densities rising as high as 2 000 m (6 600 feet) above the summit and drifting in multiple directions. Seismic activity was dominated by low-frequency earthquakes and eruptive events, and the public was warned to stay 6 km (3.7 miles) from the center of Laki-laki. Volcanic ash forced the closure of Fransiskus Xaverius Seda Airport (60 km or 37 miles west) and the cancellation of six flights on September 26–27, 2025.

Lewotobi is a complex stratovolcano system on eastern Flores Island, Indonesia, consisting of twin peaks, Lewotobi Laki-laki and Lewotobi Perempuan. Known hazards include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava domes. The closest significant settlements are several small villages within 10 km (6.2 miles) and the town of Larantuka 40 km (25 miles) to the north, with local agriculture and transport infrastructure at risk during significant eruptions.