Though Light, Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau Still Felt in Tasikmalaya City Today
Volcanic ash rain from Mount Anak Krakatau began to fall over Tasikmalaya City, West Java, on Monday (7/9/2026). The phenomenon was observed from the morning and has begun to coat vehicles and residential areas.
One clearly affected spot is the Pondok Indihiang Permai housing estate in Sirnagalih Village, Indihiang District. Several vehicles parked in residents’ front yards have been covered by a thin layer of ash since 04:30 Western Indonesian Time.
Dony Setyo Nugroho, an employee of the Tasikmalaya City Economy and Natural Resources Division, expressed his surprise upon finding his car covered in volcanic ash. According to him, the ash spread had previously been reported in several other areas, including Bandung.
“We were shocked when we left the house and saw the car parked in the yard covered in volcanic ash, especially on the outer body panels. The ash spread isn’t very visible to the naked eye in the air, but on parked vehicles it can be seen very clearly,” said Dony on Monday (7/9).
Dony added that the thickness of the ash in Tasikmalaya is still relatively thin compared with other areas because it is heavily influenced by wind direction and strength. Nevertheless, he urged his family and the wider public to start wearing masks when carrying out outdoor activities to avoid the risk of acute respiratory tract infections (ISPA).
In response to the situation, the Tasikmalaya City Police moved quickly to take precautionary measures. The Traffic Unit of the Tasikmalaya City Police distributed at least 100 masks free of charge to road users, both motorcyclists and car drivers.
The Chief of Tasikmalaya City Police, AKBP Andik Eko Siswanto, explained that the mask distribution was centred on two strategic points, namely the Rancabango three-way junction and Letnan Harun Street.
“This mask distribution is a form of the National Police’s concern for public health amid the potential impact of volcanic ash. This ash is dangerous because it can disrupt breathing and visibility while driving,” said AKBP Andik.
The police advised residents who must go outside not only to wear masks but also to equip themselves with glasses and jackets for maximum protection from exposure to volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau.