Health Minister Reveals Three Dangers of Anak Krakatau Ash: Avoid Leaving Home if Possible
The Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, explained that there are three primary dangers caused by exposure to volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. He stated that these dangers include impacts on the respiratory system, eyes, and skin.
“From the Ministry of Health’s perspective, we advise the public not to panic, but there are three things we must protect together. First, regarding health, volcanic ash has three impacts we must guard against: respiratory issues, eyes, and skin,” Budi said during an online press conference on Sunday (6/9/2026).
Regarding respiratory health, Budi reminded residents to always wear masks if they are forced to engage in outdoor activities. He also noted that every community health centre (puskesmas) has been equipped with respiratory aids to anticipate a surge in patients suffering from respiratory disturbances caused by the Anak Krakatau eruption ash.
As for the danger to the eyes, Budi requested that residents wear glasses when performing activities outdoors. He also explained the steps to be taken if eyes are exposed to the volcanic ash.
“If dust enters the eyes, ensure you do not rub them. Clean them with water and go to the puskesmas immediately, as we have provided eye drops to all health centres,” Budi said.
Regarding the third danger related to the skin, the Health Minister asked residents to routinely clean their bodies with clean water after finishing outdoor activities. He also ensured that supplies of skin ointment are available at the puskesmas.
“However, once you return home, ensure you clean yourself with water. Clean yourself carefully with water because there may be sharp particles present,” Budi added.
Furthermore, Budi urged the public not to panic when facing the volcanic ash from the Anak Krakatau eruption. However, he requested that residents avoid outdoor activities for the time being.
“How can we keep all three areas healthy? If possible, just do not leave the house. But if you must go out, wear a mask, wear glasses for your eyes, and clean your skin immediately upon returning,” Budi said.
Volcanic Ash from Anak Krakatau Eruption Spreads to Jakarta
The BMKG (Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency) has revealed the distribution of volcanic ash resulting from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau. The BMKG stated that the ash has reached areas from Lampung to parts of Jakarta.
BMKG presented the distribution data of the volcanic ash as of 04:00 WIB on Sunday (6/9). The BMKG identified two clusters of ash distribution from Mount Anak Krakatau.
“Based on information from PVMBG and VAAC Darwin, as well as analysis of RGB Himawari-9 imagery on 6 September 2026 at 04:00 WIB, two clusters of volcanic ash distribution from Mount Anak Krakatau have been identified,” the BMKG wrote on its website.
The first cluster is directed towards Jakarta, Banten, and West Java. The ash distribution reaches an altitude of 20,000 feet.
“Distribution from the surface to an altitude of 20,000 ft was observed towards the northeast-south, covering parts of DKI Jakarta, Banten, West Java, and the surrounding waters,” it explained.
Meanwhile, distribution from the surface to an altitude of 50,000 feet was observed towards the southwest-northwest. This area includes parts of Lampung to Lampung.
“Covering parts of Banten, Lampung, Bengkulu, the southern part of the Sunda Strait, as well as the Indian Ocean to the west of Bengkulu, Lampung, and Banten,” the agency explained.