Responding to the escalation of eruptive activity at Mount Anak Krakatau, an expert from the Indonesian Disaster Management Association (IABI), Dr. Daryono, urged the government and the public to tighten practical mitigation measures to reduce potential risks. This effort is considered crucial given the volcano's dynamics, which could threaten the safety of residents around the Sunda Strait at any time.
The main point emphasized is absolute compliance with the exclusion zone. Authorities have established a hazard radius of 3 kilometers from the active crater. The public, including fishermen and tourists, are requested not to approach the area to avoid the danger of incandescent material ejection, hot clouds, and exposure to life-threatening toxic gases.
In addition, coastal communities are asked to increase self-evacuation preparedness. Learning from the geological history of the Sunda Strait, every family is expected to have mapped evacuation routes to high ground and designated safe meeting points, especially in the event of volcanic activity accompanied by strong earthquakes or seawater anomalies.
Regarding the anticipation of volcanic ash impacts, Daryono advised residents to take early protective measures for their homes. Preventive steps such as sealing ventilation gaps and securing drinking water sources are highly necessary to prevent contamination from acidic micro-dust. Residents are also urged to always use respiratory and eye protection if the ash distribution begins to spread.
Finally, the public is asked not to easily believe misleading information that often arises during emergency situations. Data validation through official government channels and related institutions is an absolute requirement for the public to obtain accurate, factual, and reliable information to determine the next safety steps.
