Anak Krakatau Volcano Erupts, Ship Captains in Sunda Strait Urged to Exercise Caution

Gunung Anak Krakatau (GAK) has erupted and is currently at Level III (Alert). The Class IV Bakauheni Harbormaster and Port Authority Office (KSOP) in South Lampung has issued a warning to all ship captains navigating the Sunda Strait. Head of KSOP Class IV Bakauheni, Suratno, announced a ban on vessels sailing within a five-kilometre radius of the active crater of Anak Krakatau. The ban was imposed as a precautionary measure against the increasing volcanic activity. ‘All captains are also asked to be aware of the potential for volcanic material ejection, ash rain, and disruptions to shipping safety,’ Suratno said when confirmed. Suratno stated that crossing activity on the Bakauheni-Merak route remains normal. He noted that the crossing has not yet been affected by the volcano’s heightened status. ‘For now, the Bakauheni route is still safe. Shipping and crossing activities are still running normally,’ he said.