BNPB prepares weather modification operation to clear ash from Anak Krakatau eruption

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is preparing a weather modification operation (OMC) to help settle volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau that has spread across several areas of Jakarta, Banten and Lampung.

Speaking in Jakarta on Monday, Head of BNPB Suharyanto said the operation would be carried out once weather conditions and flight safety allow, given that the volcanic ash is also affecting activity at several airports.

“Once conditions are more conducive, we will carry out the OMC. The aircraft are already on standby at Pondok Cabe,” he said.

He explained that the OMC is one of the steps prepared by the government to help bring volcanic ash material down from the atmosphere through the formation or seeding of rain.

In addition to cloud seeding, BNPB is also preparing a water mist technique to help increase the chance of rainfall in affected areas.

In response to the activity of Mount Anak Krakatau, BNPB has held online coordination with regional disaster management agencies (BPBD) in areas affected by the volcanic ash to assess the situation of local communities and their handling needs on the ground.

“We have conducted intensive video conferences to monitor developments in the condition of communities affected by the eruption,” he said.

BNPB has also dispatched personnel to a number of affected locations to directly monitor the situation of residents and ensure the readiness of regional governments in facing possible further impacts of the volcanic activity.

In this regard, he asked regional governments to ensure the readiness of disaster management equipment, including the function of early warning systems such as sirens, evacuation sites, contingency plans, and the availability of food stocks and basic needs managed by provincial, district and municipal governments.

“If further assistance is needed, we will push for support from the central government,” he said.

To date, he stated, no affected regional government has declared a disaster emergency status.

However, BNPB will continue to coordinate with relevant ministries and agencies to anticipate further developments in the activity of Mount Anak Krakatau and its impact on communities.