Jakartans Urged to Stay Calm and Take Precautions Amid Mt. Anak Krakatau Volcanic Ash

The Jakarta Provincial Government is urging residents to stay calm and vigilant amid volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait. Residents are also advised to follow official government information.

Stay calm, but remain vigilant and follow official information from the government

Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) Head Marulitua Sijabat said, based on official information from the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) of the Geological Agency, Mount Anak Krakatau remains at Level III (Alert). The volcano has been erupting since Friday (9/4) evening, and as of Sunday (9/6), there has been no increase in its alert level.

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The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) detected volcanic ash spreading to parts of Jakarta, Banten, and West Java. In Jakarta, the ash is expected to be light, although conditions may change depending on wind direction and speed.

"The most important thing is that people do not need to panic. Stay calm, but remain vigilant and follow official information from the government," he said on Sunday (9/6).

Marulitua explained that volcanic ash differs from ordinary dust because its particles are extremely fine and can irritate the respiratory tract, eyes, and skin, particularly among vulnerable groups. Therefore, the Jakarta Provincial Government is urging residents to take several simple precautions to protect themselves.

First, wear a mask when going outside. Ordinary cloth masks are less effective at filtering volcanic ash particles.

Second, keep doors, windows, and home ventilation closed. Residents are also advised to turn off fans or air conditioners that draw air from outside if the air around their homes is affected by ash.

Third, reduce outdoor activities, particularly for babies, children, older people, pregnant women, and those with asthma, lung disease, or heart disease.

Fourth, if there is ash around the house, wet it before cleaning. Ash should not be swept while dry because this can cause the particles to become airborne again and be inhaled.

Fifth, keep water and food containers covered. Water or food exposed to volcanic ash should not be consumed.

Sixth, residents experiencing severe shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent coughing, or worsening eye irritation should immediately seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.

Seventh, residents can contact the Jakarta Siaga emergency service at 112 to report emergencies in Jakarta. The Jakarta Provincial Government also reminded residents not to believe or spread unverified information.

Updates on Mount Anak Krakatau's activity and air conditions are available through official sources, including PVMBG, BMKG, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), BPBD, and the Jakarta Provincial Government.

The Jakarta Provincial Government continues to coordinate with relevant agencies to monitor the situation. The latest information will be shared with residents if there are developments that need to be communicated.

"Jakarta continues to carry out activities as usual with appropriate vigilance. Follow official information, protect yourself and your family, and remain calm and alert," he emphasized.