Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki Erupts, at Least 10 People Killed

SEAToday.com, Kupang – Mount Lewotobi Laki in East Flores Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), erupted in the early hours of Monday, November 4, 2024, resulting in the tragic loss of 10 lives.

Fredy Moat Aeng, Acting Head of the East Flores Regional Disaster Management Agency, confirmed the death toll, stating, "The number of casualties from the eruption of Mount Lewotobi has reached 10. The deceased have been evacuated from the rubble."

Fredy, who was on site, explained that the search for victims trapped in the rubble of structures damaged by falling rocks from the mountain's summit was still ongoing. He noted that most casualties were caused by large rocks that penetrated the roofs of homes. The total damage is still being assessed as officials prioritize rescuing survivors.

In response, the East Flores Regency government has declared an emergency status following the eruption in Wulanggitang Subdistrict. Avelina Hallan, Head of the Emergency and Logistics Division of East Flores BPBD, announced, "We are now in emergency response mode, with the emergency alert raised."

The eruption has affected six villages in Wulanggitang Subdistrict—Klatanlo, Hokeng Jaya, Nawokote, Boru, Boru Kedang, and Pululera—as well as Dulipali Village in Ile Bura Subdistrict. Evacuations have moved residents to safer areas in Konga, Lewolaga, and Bokang villages within Titehena Subdistrict, where temporary shelters have been set up to accommodate evacuees.