TEMPO.CO, Kupang - The joint search and rescue team successfully evacuated 31 people trapped in Waiula Village due to the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The joint team consists of the National Police and the National Search and Rescue Agency or Basarnas

“The victims consisted of 13 men, 12 women, and six children,” said Deputy Battalion Commander, or Wadanyon B Pelopor, Adj. Comr. Agustinus Silvester, as quoted from Antara in Wulanggitang, East Flores, on Tuesday, January 9.

The evacuation process was initiated following a request from the Waiula Village Head that dozens of residents were trapped in Lewoduleng, Watobuku Hamlet. “They are all in good health,” Agustinus added.

Among the victims, he informed, were an elderly of 90 years and some with physical limitations.

He also ensured that relevant agencies, including the military, the police (TNI-Polri), the national search and rescue team (Basarnas), regional disaster mitigation agencies (BPDB), and other parties, were making efforts to contain the risk of disasters.

“Evacuated residents take shelter at the Wulanggitang Elementary School,” Agustinus said.

A total of 4,788 people take shelter in various points in Wulanggitang District, Tite Hena District, and Demon Pagong.

The volcano eruption is still ongoing, with the latest one recorded at 4 p.m. Central Indonesian Time (WITA), ejecting ash columns to the north-northeast.

People living near the Mount Lewotobi areas are strongly advised to wear face masks and eye protection when doing outdoor activities to avoid the effects of volcanic ash and to be aware of possible cold lava flooding in rivers originating from the summit of the volcano due to possible rainfall in the area.

ANTARA

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