A fresh volcanic eruption on Flores Island has shaken the local tourism scene. Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted twice on October 14–15, launching plumes of ash up to 10 km high. That forced authorities to escalate the alert to its maximum, spurring travel chaos and safety concerns for visitors.
Volcanic Activity and Alerts
The first explosion struck around 1:35 a.m., and a second burst followed at 9:21 a.m. Ash clouds quickly blanketed surrounding areas. In response, Indonesia’s volcano agency raised alerts to level 4, the most serious ranking. Officials ordered evacuation within a 6–7 km radius near the crater, warning of lahar (volcanic mudflow) hazards during rainfall.
Thousands of local residents moved from vulnerable zones. Authorities mobilized disaster management units to coordinate safe exits and shelters.
Flight Disruptions and Airport Closures
Air travel was among the first sectors to suffer. Maumere’s Fransiskus Xaverius Seda airport, located some 60 km west of the volcano, suspended all operations to avoid risk. Many flights in and out of Flores were delayed or canceled.
Even services linking to Bali saw ripple effects. Volcano debris threatened air routes and forced some flight adjustments. While Bali’s main tourism circuits remain intact, travelers to the region should brace for possible last-minute shifts.
Advice for Tourists on and Near Flores
Tourists already on the island were advised to stay calm and follow all local guidance. Move away from volatile zones, wear protective masks during ashfall, and monitor official advisories. Local tourism bodies stressed that safety remains a priority.
Those planning to visit Flores or nearby regions must check airport status, route options, and insurance clauses. Some may opt to delay or reroute visits via safer islands.
Impact on Wider Indonesian Destinations
Though Flores felt the brunt, the eruption’s influence extended beyond. Bali flights encountered some disruption due to ash presence in the airspace. Yet Bali’s famed destinations—rice terraces, temples, beaches—still operate with few interruptions.
Tourists whose Flores plans were derailed might pivot to Bali, Lombok, or Java, destinations known for robust infrastructure and diversified attractions. But all must stay alert to aviation updates.
Resilience and Future Prospects
This eruption is not the first for Lewotobi. The twin-volcano complex has stirred in recent years, with notable activity in mid-2025. Still, Flores remains a magnet for adventurers. The island is the gateway to Komodo National Park, rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and deep marine life.
Authorities and tourism agencies have pledged to protect visitor safety and stabilize operations. The national disaster agency and tourism ministry monitor the volcano continuously and stand ready to respond to new developments.
Long term, the eruption underlines the island’s wild and elemental character—a factor that attracts a certain type of traveler. With rigorous safety planning and early alerts, the tourism sector hopes to rebound quickly.
Tips for Travelers Planning Visits to Flores
- Check with airlines and airports before booking or departing.
- Confirm travel insurance covers volcanic disruption.
- Avoid planning close to the volcano’s exclusion zone (6–7 km).
- Use trusted local guides who follow official routes and warnings.
- Monitor regional alerts and heed evacuation orders if issued.
While the eruption has disrupted travel and stirred uncertainty, Flores’ core appeal endures: dramatic coastlines, remote islands, and authentic cultural encounters. For the cautious and prepared, the island still holds promise. But flexibility and up-to-date planning are essential in this volatile landscape.
Travelers are urged to follow updates from Indonesia’s disaster and tourism agencies. With vigilance and good planning, visitors can still enjoy one of Asia’s most compelling adventure destinations despite this temporary disruption.
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