Fact Check: The Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano Erupted on June 17, 2025, Unleashing a 6.8 Miles-High Ash Cloud
What We Know
On June 17, 2025, the Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano in Indonesia erupted, producing a significant ash cloud. Reports indicate that the ash cloud reached a height of 11 kilometers (approximately 6.8 miles), as confirmed by multiple sources including the Indonesian Geological Agency (AP News, Reuters). The eruption prompted authorities to raise the alert level to the highest category, indicating a serious threat to nearby areas (Sky News, Al Jazeera). The ash cloud was visible from cities located up to 150 kilometers (about 93 miles) away, highlighting the eruption's intensity and reach (AP News, Hindustan Times).
Analysis
The claim that Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted on June 17, 2025, and released an ash cloud reaching 6.8 miles high is supported by credible sources. The Indonesian Geological Agency reported that the volcano emitted ash clouds measuring 10,000 meters (32,800 feet), which aligns with the 6.8 miles figure mentioned in various news reports (Reuters, Sky News).
The sources reporting on this event, including major news outlets like the Associated Press and Reuters, are generally considered reliable and reputable in the field of journalism. They have a history of accurate reporting on natural disasters and geological events, which adds to the credibility of their accounts. Furthermore, the reports consistently mention the significant volcanic activity preceding the eruption, which included a series of smaller eruptions and heightened seismic activity (AP News, Al Jazeera).
However, it is essential to note that while the ash cloud's height has been reported consistently, the potential for bias exists in how different outlets frame the event. Some may emphasize the danger and disruption caused by the eruption more than others, which could influence public perception. Nonetheless, the core fact regarding the eruption and the ash cloud height remains consistent across multiple reliable sources.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that the Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano erupted on June 17, 2025, unleashing a 6.8 miles-high ash cloud is accurate. This conclusion is based on corroborating reports from reputable news agencies and geological authorities, all of which confirm the eruption's occurrence and the significant height of the ash cloud produced.
Sources
- Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki spews 11 kilometre high ash cloud after eruption
- Alert raised to the highest level after Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano erupts
- Lewotobi
- Volcano erupts in Indonesia, unleashing 6.8 miles-high ash cloud
- Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki volcano erupts, alert raised to highest level
- Moment volcano erupts, spews 6.8 miles-high ash cloud in Indonesia
- Indonesian volcanic mountain Mt. Lewotobi Laki Laki spews colossal of ash tower; authorities issue alert
- Volcano erupts in Indonesia, unleashing 6.8 miles-high ash cloud
