According to our coordination with the local authorities, six fatalities have confirmed," Abdul Muhari, the spokesman for Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency, said in an interview for the Kompas TV broadcaster. He emphasized the urgency of the situation and the need for continued rescue efforts as the area is still being assessed for further casualties.
Avi Mangota Hallan, heading emergency response for East Flores district, noted that rescue teams are actively searching for potential victims trapped under the rubble of collapsed homes. He highlighted the challenges faced due to the volcanic activity which complicates their efforts.
Firman Yosef from the volcano's monitoring post informed that the eruptions have been expelling ash up to 2,000 meters into the air daily since Thursday, causing major destruction including the burning of multiple houses and a convent.
The government declared a state of emergency in affected areas until December 31 and raised the alert level to its highest mark. The volcanology agency warned of potential lava floods and urged the public to avoid the danger zone.
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