How Banten Is Responding to Anak Krakatau's Volcanic Ashfall

The Banten Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has heightened its readiness in anticipation of the escalating activity of Mount Anak Krakatau. A seven-step preparedness plan, outlined in circular number B-300.2/428-BPBD/2026, was released on September 7, 2026. The first step involves mapping and monitoring the effects of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, which must be reported regularly to BPBD Banten. The agency's Head, Lutfi Mujahidin, elaborated on these steps during an interview with Tempo.

The second step focuses on ensuring the readiness of evacuation routes, warning signs, and evacuation sites. This includes checking the conditions and accessibility of these routes, making sure signs are clear and understandable, and confirming that evacuation sites are prepared for immediate use if needed. Step three involves preparing logistical resources and disaster equipment.

These resources must be distributed swiftly and accurately in the event of an evacuation. The fourth step entails restricting community activities and tourist presence in areas that might be affected by the volcanic activity. This is based on the Disaster-Prone Area (KRB) status of Mount Anak Krakatau, its current level of activity, and official recommendations from the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG). Each restriction will be clearly communicated to the public and activity participants.

The fifth step encourages the community to prepare Disaster Alert Bags. These bags should contain essential items, important documents, and personal protective equipment to protect against volcanic ash, including masks, protective goggles, and face shields. BPBD Banten also ensures that the public takes precautions to protect their water sources by securing them against potential contamination from volcanic ash.

This aligns with government advice for the public to be ready to evacuate if necessary, following government directives and recommendations from authorized parties.

Finally, the agency stresses the importance of ensuring that the public can evacuate independently through education, simulation, and dissemination of evacuation routes and procedures. Lutfi Mujahidin asked all BPBDs in Banten Province to increase their preparedness and vigilance and ensure accurate, timely, and accountable information reaches the public.

The Geological Agency confirmed that the continuous eruption that began on Friday night ended early Sunday after lasting 25 hours. There were six Strombolian eruptions until 6 am this morning. The return of Strombolian eruptions, a characteristic of Mount Anak Krakatau's eruptions, suggests the end of a long continuous eruption episode, according to the head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria.

However, the development of volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau remains under continuous monitoring and evaluation. There is still a high chance of an eruption in the upcoming periods.