The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Lebak Regency has issued a stern warning for fishermen and tourists to stay away from the Mount Anak Krakatau (GAK) area. This mitigation step was taken following an increase in the volcano's activity, which is now at Level III or Alert.
The Head of Lebak Regency BPBD, Sukanta, emphasized that fishermen along the southern coast, such as Binuangeun, Panggarangan, Bayah, and Cihara, are requested not to go to sea in those waters. This warning refers to the recommendation of the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), which prohibits all forms of activity within a three-kilometer radius of the active crater.
The upgrade to Alert status is based on potential hazards such as the ejection of incandescent materials and the dispersion of volcanic ash that could threaten lives in both marine and coastal areas. Despite the intensive volcanic activity, Sukanta assured that conditions along the Lebak coast remain conducive, and residents are continuing their daily activities as usual.
Echoing this sentiment, residents in several other coastal areas reportedly showed no excessive panic, given that GAK activity is a regular occurrence. Local fishermen and residents share a collective awareness to monitor the situation through official information channels.
Lebak BPBD also stressed the importance for all members of the community not to be consumed by unverified information on social media. They urged the public to always refer to official channels from PVMBG, BMKG, and BPBD to avoid confusion regarding the current conditions of Mount Anak Krakatau.
