Anak Krakatau Erupts, Banten BPBD Focuses on Tsunami Potential

The Provincial Government of Banten has stated that it continues to monitor the development of the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait. Information regarding the potential for a tsunami is now a primary concern, especially as the volcanic activity has increased to Level IV (Warning) status. “Our focus is not the mountain erupting, but a tsunami. If it erupts, only ash will come our way,” said the Head of the Banten Provincial Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Lutfi Mujahidin, on Thursday (9/7/2026). Lutfi explained that the presence or absence of a tsunami potential is the deciding factor for authorities in urging residents to evacuate. “It depends. If it is just an eruption above, will it cause an earthquake or not? If it does not cause a tsunami, then it is fine,” he said. After receiving information regarding a potential tsunami, the public is estimated to have approximately 40 minutes to carry out an evacuation. Therefore, the Banten BPBD, together with several related agencies, will move quickly to assist the evacuation process. “From the volcanic eruption, there is a 40-minute window. So, when it erupts and there is a tsunami potential, the time is 40 minutes. If the public does not understand, they might just relax. So, if the sea water has receded, do not just stand around,” said Lutfi. The Banten BPBD continues to monitor the latest information from the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG). In addition, emergency response training has also been provided to the Water Tourism Rescue Agency (Balawista) to speed up the evacuation process in the field. “For information, we follow the PVMBG. Then, we have provided independent evacuation education. We have also conducted rescue training for Balawista,” he stated. Lutfi also urged the public not to panic in facing the eruptive conditions of Mount Anak Krakatau, but to remain alert and recognise the existing evacuation signs. “Do not panic, do not be afraid. The important thing is, if you are in a disaster area, know the evacuation routes that have been set up, follow the evacuation routes, and head to the assembly point,” he concluded.