The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) emphasized the importance of the public relying on official government communication channels regarding the dynamic volcanic activity of Mount Anak Krakatau (GAK). This step was taken to prevent the spread of misinformation that could cause public anxiety in South Lampung and surrounding areas.
Head of the Mount Anak Krakatau Monitoring Post in Hargopancuran, Andi Suwardi, emphasized that his team continues to conduct intensive monitoring, both visually and using instrumental equipment. According to him, fluctuations in the mountain's activity are a natural energy release cycle, where activity will decrease after accumulated energy is depleted, so the public is urged to remain vigilant without unnecessary panic.
Regarding potential risks, PVMBG compared current geological conditions with the tsunami event in 2018. Currently, the height of Mount Anak Krakatau is around 157 meters above sea level (masl), significantly lower than when it reached 338 masl in 2018. This reduction in peak load is expected to minimize destructive impacts should volcanic landslides occur in the future.
Regarding direct impacts on coastal residents, PVMBG identified ashfall as the most likely risk if the wind blows toward the land. The public is advised to wear protective masks immediately to anticipate exposure to volcanic ash. As of now, conditions on the ground remain safe, and there is no imminent threat to residential areas.
