inp.polri.go.id - Kupang. The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Regional Police continues to closely monitor the activity of Mount Ile Lewotolok in Lembata Regency, which remains at Level III (Alert).

Monitoring is carried out as part of efforts to protect public safety and maintain public order and security in the affected area.

According to an official report from the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), during the observation period of Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Mount Ile Lewotolok experienced 114 eruptions, with eruption columns reaching 300–500 meters high, accompanied by white, gray, and black smoke. The eruptions were also accompanied by a low-intensity rumbling sound.

The Head of Public Relations for the NTT Regional Police, Senior Superintendent Henry Novika Chandra, explained that the police personnel in Lembata region have been put on alert to anticipate further impacts from the volcanic activity.

"The NTT Regional Police continue to coordinate with the Lembata Sub-regional Police, local governments, and relevant agencies to ensure the readiness of personnel in the field. This step is being taken to ensure public safety and maintain a safe and conducive situation," said Henry.

Visually, the mountain is clearly visible until it's shrouded in a thin haze, with weakly pressurized crater smoke rising 20–50 meters above the summit. Seismic activity, including eruptions, eruptions, and harmonic and non-harmonic tremors, has also been recorded, indicating ongoing magma dynamics.

Regarding information from AirNav Indonesia regarding the potential temporary closure of Wunopito Lembata Airport due to volcanic ash distribution, Henry confirmed that flight operations are currently operating normally, but remain under strict monitoring.

"With shared vigilance and adherence to official recommendations, we hope that the entire community will remain safe and protected from unwanted risks," he concluded.

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