Three eruptions, at a height of 800 meters above the summit crater, were observedKupang, E Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA) - Mount Ile Lewotolok in Ile Ape, Lembata District, East Nusa Tenggara, erupted three times, spewing smoke 800 meters into the sky, head of the volcano monitoring post, Stanis Arakian, announced on Wednesday
"Three eruptions, at a height of 800 meters above the summit crater, were observed," Arakian said.
He noted that the volcano was still visible, and low-pressure smoke was witnessed to be white and gray with moderate to thick intensity and rising 100-800 meters high above the summit crater.
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Arakian added that although there were three eruptions, the rumblings were weak.
In addition, he pointed out that in May 2022, the eruptions on Mount Ile Lewotolok tended to decrease, but since the beginning of June, it has increased.
Each day there have been about 100 eruptions accompanied by the volcano spewing volcanic materials that cover the top of the crater, Arakian said.
With a fairly high eruption intensity, he suggested implementing a ban on public activities within a 3.5-km radius from the top of the volcano’s crater.
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Also, people residing in the east and southeast regions, within 3.5-km from the top, are advised to remain vigilant, he said.
Some villagers in Ile Ape Sub-District, such as those in Jontona village, Lamawolo Village, and Lamatokan Village, should always be alert to the threat of incandescent lava avalanches and hot clouds from the eastern part of the peak, he said.
Meanwhile, Arakian stated, on Level III or on alert status, both people living around the volcano and visitors, such as climbers and tourists, are urged to not hike within a radius of 3 km from the top of the crater.
He also offered another recommendation, that given the potential dangers of volcanic ash that can cause respiratory and other health problems, people around the volcano should wear masks covering the nose and mouth, as well as other equipment to protect the eyes and skin.
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Translator: Kornelis K, Kenzu T
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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