Air Quality Hit by Mount Anak Krakatau Ash: KLH Monitoring Results

Air quality reached the “very unhealthy” category in several parts of South Sumatra after ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau affected a number of areas, according to Indonesia’s Environment Ministry.

Monitoring through the Air Quality Monitoring System and the Air Pollution Standard Index recorded very unhealthy readings at stations in Palembang’s Bukit Kecil district, Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir and Ogan Ilir. Unhealthy air was recorded in Lahat, Musi Rawas, Prabumulih, Musi Banyuasin’s Serasan Jaya, Tebo, Jambi’s Paal Lima and Tanjung Jabung Timur’s Muara Sabak.

The ministry also reported moderate air quality in Muara Enim, Bengkulu’s Singaran Pati and Bandar Lampung’s Talang. In Java, moderate readings were recorded in Jakarta’s GBK area, Serang’s Sumurpecung, Tangerang’s Pasir Jaya, South Tangerang’s Serpong, Cilegon’s Pulomerak and Bogor’s Leuwiliang.

Noer Adi Wardoyo, acting deputy for pollution and environmental damage control at the ministry and the Environmental Control Agency, said technical teams were measuring ambient PM2.5 and PM10, sulfur dioxide concentrations and seawater quality along the coasts of Banten and Lampung. He said the monitoring covered conditions through 2 p.m. local time on Sept. 6.

The ministry noted that forest and land fires were still affecting southern Sumatra and could influence the pollution index. “In addition, KLH/BPLH is still examining the direct relationship between the increase in particulates and the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, which requires further technical study,” Noer Adi said. The ministry urged residents to follow official information, watch for changes in air quality and take extra precautions outdoors. It specifically advised children, older people, pregnant women and those with respiratory problems to be cautious and wear masks when necessary.

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In addition, KLH/BPLH is still examining the direct relationship between the increase in particulates and the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, which requires further technical study.