The Eruption of Mount Lewotobi

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on November 3, 2024, at 11:57 PM local time. The eruption recorded a maximum amplitude of 47.3 mm and lasted for approximately 24 minutes and 10 seconds. Smaller follow-up eruptions occurred later at 3:34 AM and 2:24 AM.

This tragedy is not the first disaster in 2024. In September, an earthquake struck Bandung Regency. However, this is the first eruption of Mount Lewotobi in 11 years.

As of November 17, 2024, the eruption has caused 10 deaths, 33 severe burn injuries, and 64 other injuries.

Impacted Sectors

The eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki has affected several vital sectors and caused loss of life. Volcanic ash has contaminated water sources and sanitation facilities, resulting in a lack of clean water for the affected communities.

The disaster has also disrupted the local economy, as farmlands, gardens, and crops, the primary income sources for many people there, have been polluted by ash, creating a risk of crop failure. Livestock owned by the residents is also at risk of death.

Health concerns have risen due to many residents suffering from injuries and potential respiratory infections caused by ash exposure. Public facilities and schools have been burned, collapsed, or covered in ash, forcing them to close temporarily.
 

Emergency Response by Gugah Nurani Indonesia

Gugah Nurani Indonesia (GNI) deployed its Emergency Response Team (ER Team) to the affected areas on November 16, 2024. Upon arrival, the team visited several evacuation sites.

Between November 16 and 17, 2024, the ER Team visited five evacuation posts: Tenawahang Post, SDI Bokang, Bokang Wolomatang, Kobasoma, and Konga. These posts are currently sheltering a total of 4,066 evacuees, including 814 children, 245 toddlers, 53 babies, 491 elderly individuals, 27 people with disabilities, 22 pregnant women, and 76 breastfeeding mothers.

As part of GNI’s commitment to children’s rights, GNI will provide psychosocial support for children affected by the disaster in several evacuation locations.
Stay tuned for updates from us. GNI will continue to share the latest information about its activities in the field. Don’t forget to follow GNI’s Instagram account for real-time updates.

Also Read:

Psychosocial Support for Children After the Bandung Regency Earthquake

E-Classroom Transformation Project Signing Ceremony: Ready to Support Digital Learning in Balikpapan

Written by: FD Team