Preliminary data puts Lewotobi shelter deaths at 63 in East Flores

Larantuka — Preliminary data recorded 63 deaths among Lewotobi Laki-laki survivors living in temporary shelters in East Flores during 2024–2026, according to figures gathered from three village governments on 21 October 2026.

The reported total covers 27 deaths in Nawokote, 22 in Klatanlo and 14 in Dulipali. The figures do not include final totals from Hokeng Jaya, Nobo, or Podor and Kampung Baru hamlets in Boru village, where deaths were also reported.

The data were reported as displaced residents and advocates urged the government to complete permanent housing. The issue emerged after an analysis by academics from IFTK Ledalero at the Konga temporary shelter in Titehena district, where thousands of survivors from five villages had lived for almost two years.

Why it matters to Flores readers

The reported deaths point to continuing risks for communities displaced by the eruption. The report attributed the situation to unhealthy shelter conditions and psychological pressure, with older people and residents who had existing illnesses described as particularly vulnerable.

Residents at Konga were reported to be living in cramped homes, with limited privacy and two or three families sometimes sharing one unit. The temporary shelter was built on land with unresolved tenure issues, according to the report.

The Lewotobi Laki-laki eruption displaced residents from affected villages in East Flores and left many unable to return home. A separate report on 15 October said an alliance of church and civil-society groups was urging the government to provide permanent housing for affected households, including residents still living in temporary shelters.

The 63-death figure is preliminary. Further village-level data are needed before a complete total for all affected temporary shelters can be established.

Sources

• Ekorantt — regional news organisation
• detik.com
• dzrh.com.ph