Inp.polri.go.id - Kupang. A joint team from East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police and Search and Rescue (SAR) personnel has intensified evacuations of residents affected by the escalating volcanic activity of Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in East Flores Regency. 

Following increased volcanic activity on Thursday, evacuations on Friday (8/11/2024) have expanded to additional villages, including Nawakote, Nurabelen, Lewotobi, and Duang Baulatang.

The evacuation initial focus was on the most impacted villages—Klatanlo, Hokeng Jaya, Nobo, Boru, and Dulipali. 

Assistant Senior Inspector Agustinus Silfester, the Deputy Commander of Mobile Brigade Battalion B Company in Maumere, noted that volcanic materials like stones, gravel, and ash are increasingly reaching Nawakote, prompting residents to seek safety.

Evacuated residents have been relocated to government-prepared shelters in Konga, Bokang, and Lewolaga villages.

According to the Lewotobi Volcano Observation Post, the volcano erupted nine times on Friday morning and afternoon, with ash columns reaching 500 to 8,000 meters. The presence of pyroclastic flows extending 3,000 meters from the crater and continuous tremors indicate ongoing risks.

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