Volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau (GAK) in the waters of the Sunda Strait has shown another significant escalation. Throughout early July 2026, a total of 11 eruptions were recorded, prompting the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation to raise the volcano's status from Level II (Watch) to Level III (Alert).
An official at the GAK Observation Post in Hargopancuran Village, Andi Suardi, emphasized that this status change was based on the analysis of seismic data continuously monitored 24 hours a day. Strict protocols are now in place, with the public, fishermen, and tourists strictly prohibited from approaching the active crater within a safe radius of three kilometers to avoid potential unexpected eruption hazards.
Despite the status upgrade, Andi confirmed that conditions along the Lampung coast and nearby settlements, such as Sebesi Island, remain in the safe category. Geographically, GAK's isolated position in the middle of the sea minimizes the direct impact of eruptions on land, so the public is urged to carry on with their usual activities without excessive panic.
It is important to understand that Mount Anak Krakatau has a long history as a remnant of the cataclysmic 1883 Krakatoa eruption. Since first emerging above the surface in 1930, GAK has continuously undergone a growth phase through periodic eruption cycles. The observation post in Lampung, which has been operating since 1994, continues to coordinate intensively with the South Lampung BPBD to ensure that disaster mitigation systems and evacuation routes remain ready.
The public is asked to always monitor official information from authorized agencies and not be influenced by speculative information or false news circulating among the community. Vigilance must be maintained, but priority should always be given to science-based data when responding to the current volcanic situation.
