Indonesia Races to Evacuate Thousands After Deadly Volcano Eruption
PSC Notes
Deadly Eruption: Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano on Flores Island erupted on November 3rd, 2024, killing nine people, injuring dozens, and damaging thousands of homes.
Mass Evacuation: The Indonesian government is working to evacuate at least 16,000 residents from villages surrounding the volcano, which remains on high alert.
Evacuation Challenges: Thick volcanic ash has hampered evacuation efforts, making road travel difficult. As of November 5th, only about 2,472 residents had been evacuated.
Temporary Shelters: Evacuees are being relocated to schools and temporary shelters in safer villages, approximately 20 km away from the volcano’s crater.
Emergency Response: The local government has declared a state of emergency for the next 58 days, enabling aid from the central government. Military and police personnel are assisting with evacuations.
Infrastructure Disruption: Four airports on Flores Island have been closed due to the eruption, further complicating relief efforts.
Ring of Fire: Indonesia’s location along the “Pacific Ring of Fire” makes it prone to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes due to the convergence of tectonic plates.