Overview
- The July 7 eruption at 11 a.m. local time propelled ash about 18 kilometers skyward and generated pyroclastic flows extending roughly five kilometers north and northeast of the crater.
- No injuries or fatalities have been reported as the volcano continues to explode, and authorities warn further blasts are possible.
- The Indonesian Center for Volcanology has established a six-kilometer safety radius and urged residents and visitors to wear masks to limit ash inhalation.
- Experts caution that heavy rains could convert fresh ash into dangerous lahars, or volcanic mudflows, threatening nearby river valleys.
- Maumere airport remains closed and several flights between Australia and Bali have been canceled due to ash clouds disrupting regional air travel.