Geological Agency: Anak Krakatau Eruption Returns to Strombolian Phase

Mount Anak Krakatau has returned to its typical Strombolian phase, with eruptions lasting only seconds and showing moderate amplitude, Indonesia’s Geological Agency said.

Agency chief Lana Saria said seismic vibrations had steadily declined since Sept. 5. Monitoring on Sept. 8 recorded eight small eruptions, each lasting between 10 and 15 seconds. Volcanic material and ash remained concentrated around the slopes and crater body.

“

It has now returned to the typical Strombolian phase of Mount Anak Krakatau. Eruptions occur with a moderate amplitude, are not too long, and last only a few seconds.

Saria said the current activity differs from the December 2018 eruption, when part of the volcano collapsed into the sea and triggered a tsunami. Current deformation data showed no movement of the crater walls that could potentially cause a landslide into the water.

“

According to the latest observations on September 8, eight small eruptions were recorded, each lasting between 10 and 15 seconds.

Improving atmospheric conditions after the ash column diminished helped commercial flight operations. Several airports that had been affected by ash resumed service after authorities determined that flight safety requirements had been met.

Fishing along the Sunda Strait coast also returned to normal. Authorities advised fishermen to continue wearing eye protection and masks against light ash exposure. Despite the decline in activity, the Geological Agency kept Anak Krakatau at Alert Level III, with a three-kilometer safety radius.

“

Although volcanic activity has begun to decline since September 5, the status remains Alert (Level III) with a safety radius of three kilometers.