Anak Krakatau Volcanic Ash Covers Several Areas in Lampung
Volcanic ash resulting from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau (GAK) covered several areas in Lampung Province on Saturday (5/9), starting from 17:00 WIB until the night. Based on gathered information, the distribution of volcanic ash hit South Lampung Regency, Bandar Lampung City, East Lampung, Pesawlaran, Pringsewu, Tanggamus, West Pesisir, Mesuji, and West Lampung.
The impact of this ash distribution has led residents to complain of stinging eyes, throat discomfort, and respiratory disturbances. A change in wind direction is suspected to be the primary cause of the volcanic ash being carried to a wider range.
This phenomenon suddenly became a trending topic on social media after being uploaded by residents from various regencies in Lampung Province.
Ash and Sulphur Odour
In South Lampung Regency, fine blackish volcanic ash was seen adhering closely to porches and the interior of residents’ homes. Additionally, residents complained of a pungent sulphur aroma.
This condition was widespread across almost all sub-districts, including Sidomulyo, Kalianda, Penengahan, Rajabasa, Palas, Way Panji, Candipuro, Katibung, Way Sulan, and Tanjung Bintang.
“The fine volcanic ash dust is thick; a lot of it is sticking to the floor of the front porch and inside the house. Even after sweeping or cleaning, the ash becomes thick again within minutes,” said a resident of Sidomulyo District on Saturday (5/9) night.
“The pungent smell, like sulphur or something burnt, started being felt tonight,” they added.
Motorists Complain of Stinging Eyes
The exposure to volcanic ash on highways also disrupted visibility and comfort for road users, particularly motorcyclists. Many riders were forced to pull over because ash had entered their eyes.
“It really stings; this fine volcanic ash has entered my eyes,” said a motorcyclist while wiping their eyes by the roadside.
Another resident, Sugiarto, expressed similar sentiments, noting his eyes felt as if they were filled with sand after riding his motorcycle.
“It feels very painful in my eyes. My nose is also uncomfortable; perhaps because of that sulphur-like smell, I have been sneezing several times,” he told CNNIndonesia.com upon arriving home.
Due to the widespread distribution of volcanic ash, residents have chosen to limit outdoor activities, especially those with young children or histories of respiratory issues. Some members of the community have expressed hope that the local government will immediately intervene by distributing free masks.
Separately, a resident of Bandar Lampung City, Novita, reported similar conditions. Novita mentioned that volcanic ash had settled on numerous four-wheeled vehicles and entered homes.
“It is the same in Bandar Lampung; volcanic ash is sticking to many cars. Even my car’s front windshield is heavily covered in ash,” she said.
Lampung BPBD Advisory
Responding to the volcanic ash distribution, the Lampung Provincial BPBD and the South Lampung Regency Government have urged the public to take precautionary measures to avoid eye irritation and respiratory disturbances.
Residents are advised to use masks and goggles when they must be active outdoors or in open spaces. Furthermore, they are urged to tightly close doors, windows, and vents if volcanic ash begins to enter homes.
Additionally, food storage areas and clean water sources should be covered to prevent contamination from the volcanic ash.
Furthermore, the public is advised to be cautious when driving by maintaining safe distances and speeds, as the ash reduces visibility and makes roads slippery. Residents are asked to remain calm and follow official information from the government and relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) recorded another eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau on Sunday (6/9) at 03:53 WIB.
“The eruption was recorded on the seismograph with a maximum amplitude of 46 mm and a duration of 30 seconds,” stated the official report from the Geological Agency on Sunday (6/9).
The agency recommended that the public, visitors, tourists, and climbers do not approach Mount Anak Krakatau or engage in activities within a 3 km radius of the active crater.
Activity from the Mount Anak Krakatau eruption also impacted at least 33 flights at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) as of 5 September 2026, 22:00 WIB.