Continuous ash emissions at Lewotobi volcano reach 5 500 m (18 000 feet) a.s.l., Indonesia

Volcanic ash from Lewotobi volcano in Indonesia was observed at altitudes up to 5 500 m (18 000 feet) above sea level at 02:30 UTC on October 15, 2025. The Darwin VAAC issued this advisory at 02:50 UTC, describing ongoing ash emissions.

According to the advisory, continuous volcanic ash was observed moving northwest from the summit. The primary ash cloud was located at altitudes reaching flight level 180, equivalent to approximately 5 500 m (18 000 feet). Near the summit, ash to flight level 220 (around 6 700 m or 22 000 feet) was detected in light winds. Some parts of the ash cloud moving west-northwest were becoming diffuse and expected to dissipate within 6 hours. Satellite imagery from Himawari-8 and local ground reports confirmed the observations. The current Aviation Color Code is Red.

Recent reports from the Smithsonian / USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report state that daily white-and-gray or gray ash plumes with variable densities rose up to 2 000 m (6 600 feet) above the summit of Lewotobi Laki-laki and drifted in multiple directions during late September 2025. Seismic activity was also noted. On September 29, 2025, the Alert Level was lowered to 3 (on a scale of 1-4), and the public was instructed to remain 6 km (3.7 miles) from the center of Laki-laki.

Lewotobi is a stratovolcano situated on eastern Flores Island, Indonesia, and consists of twin summits. The primary hazards associated with Lewotobi include ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lava flows. The region is rural but includes small communities and agricultural areas within 20 km (12 miles) of the volcano, which are at risk from volcanic activity and related hazards.