Fact Check: Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupts, spewing 6.8-mile-high ash cloud!

Fact Check: "Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupts, spewing 6.8-mile-high ash cloud!"

What We Know

On June 17, 2025, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia erupted, producing a significant ash cloud. Reports indicate that the ash cloud reached a height of approximately 11 kilometers (about 6.8 miles) into the atmosphere, as confirmed by Indonesia's volcanology agency (Reuters, BBC). The eruption prompted authorities to raise the alert level to the highest category and establish a danger zone extending 8 kilometers (about 5 miles) from the crater (AP News).

The volcano, which stands at 1,584 meters (5,197 feet), has a history of eruptions, including a notable incident in November 2024 that resulted in fatalities and injuries (AP News, Reuters). The ash cloud from the recent eruption was visible from cities located up to 150 kilometers away (AP News).

Analysis

The claim that Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted, spewing a 6.8-mile-high ash cloud, is accurate in terms of the reported height of the ash cloud. However, the claim may mislead some readers into thinking that the ash cloud was only 6.8 miles high, when in fact, multiple sources confirm that the ash cloud reached heights of around 11 kilometers (approximately 6.8 miles) (Reuters, BBC).

The reliability of the sources reporting this event is generally high. The Associated Press and BBC are reputable news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The information provided by Indonesia's volcanology agency also adds credibility to the reports, as it is the authoritative body monitoring volcanic activity in the region (AP News, BBC).

However, it is essential to note that while the height of the ash cloud is reported consistently, the interpretation of the claim may vary. The phrase "spewing 6.8-mile-high ash cloud" could imply that this was the only significant measurement of the eruption, overshadowing the broader context of the event, including the establishment of danger zones and evacuation measures.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

While the claim that Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted and produced an ash cloud reaching 6.8 miles high is based on factual reports, it lacks context and could lead to misunderstandings. The ash cloud was reported to reach approximately 11 kilometers (6.8 miles), but the claim does not specify this height correctly. Additionally, the implications of the eruption, including the establishment of danger zones and public safety measures, are crucial aspects that the claim overlooks. Therefore, while the specific height may be accurate, the overall presentation of the claim is misleading.

Fact Check: Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupts, spewing 6.8-mile-high ash cloud!