Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki erupted in Indonesia on Tuesday and launched a massive ash column 6.8 miles into the sky, according to the country's Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation.
The powerful eruption prompted authorities to raise the alert to Level 4, signaling the most serious threat to surrounding communities. Officials warned of the increased risk of lava flows, especially if heavy rainfall occurred in the area, which could trigger dangerous lahars, or fast-moving mudflows made of volcanic debris and water.
Images released by the volcanology agency showed a bright orange ash mushroom-shaped plume casting a haze over a nearby village. The eruption is Lewotobi Laki-laki's second major event this year, with the last significant activity recorded in May.
As of Tuesday, there was no immediate confirmation of flight delays or cancellations. However, past eruptions have had serious consequences for air travel. In March, similar volcanic activity forced airlines, including Jetstar and Qantas, to cancel and delay flights to and from Bali.
Efforts to assess the full impact of the eruption are ongoing. Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency and national search and rescue teams have yet to release statements on possible evacuations or local damage. Authorities continue to monitor the volcano closely, though, and urge residents to stay alert and follow evacuation guidelines if issued.
Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki is one of many active volcanoes in Indonesia, which is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a volatile seismic zone where multiple tectonic plates meet. This geographical position makes the nation particularly prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity, with dozens of eruptions occurring annually.