The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has officially raised the activity status of Mount Anak Krakatau from Level II (Advisory) to Level III (Alert). This decision took effect on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 16:30 WIB, following a series of intensely monitored increases in volcanic activity over recent weeks.
Acting Head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria, revealed that the status upgrade was based on a comprehensive analysis of visual, deformation, and seismic data. A crucial indicator was the spike in shallow volcanic earthquakes, reflecting the movement of magma toward the surface. Between June 16 and July 2, 2026, hundreds of seismic events were recorded, ranging from emission earthquakes to continuous tremor.
In addition to the seismic threat, satellite monitoring and field sensors detected thermal anomalies and increased sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas emissions in the crater area. The climax of this activity occurred on Thursday afternoon, when the volcano erupted, spewing a 200-meter-high column of volcanic ash that drifted northwest.
In response to the heightened status, authorities at the Mount Anak Krakatau Monitoring Post in South Lampung issued a strict ban prohibiting residents, fishermen, and tourists from approaching within a 3-kilometer radius of the crater. This preventive measure aims to avoid hazards from ejected volcanic material and toxic gases.
The public is urged to remain calm and rely only on official sources of information. The Geological Agency stated it will maintain continuous 24-hour monitoring and provide regular updates to ensure the safety of communities in the affected area.
