A series of powerful eruptions from Mount Anak Krakatau has caused widespread travel chaos across Indonesia, resulting in the grounding of over 1,500 flights. The volcanic activity, which has been continuous since Friday, September 4, in the Sunda Strait, has sent ash plumes soaring as high as 50,000 feet (15,000 metres), creating hazardous conditions for aviation.
Eruption Timeline and Impact
- Early Sunday Activity: A 30-second eruption occurred at 3:53 am, followed by a 16-second eruption approximately three hours later.
- Airport Disruptions: Eight airports have suspended operations, with Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport remaining closed through Sunday night, affecting 964 flights at that hub alone.
- Passenger Impact: Approximately 170,000 travelers have been left stranded due to the widespread flight cancellations.
The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation confirmed that the ash clouds have drifted toward Jakarta, western Java, and Lampung province on Sumatra. Beyond the aviation sector, the eruption has disrupted local fishing activities and forced authorities to implement remote learning for schools in Jakarta and Lampung. Residents in affected areas have been advised to limit outdoor exposure and wear protective masks.
Regional Volcanic Status
The situation is further complicated by heightened volcanic activity elsewhere in the country. Mount Semeru in East Java recently recorded a fresh eruption, producing a one-kilometre-high ash column. Currently, five Indonesian volcanoes are under a Level 3 alert status as officials continue to monitor the geological instability. The report also notes that the volcano had shown increasing activity since Friday, Sept. The report also notes that indonesian authorities described the latest eruption as the strongest phase of its current activity. The report also notes that ash clouds rose as high as 50,000 feet (about 15,000 metres), putting aircraft at risk and prompting aviation authorities to suspend operations. The report also notes that also Read: Emirates cancels Jakarta flight, Etihad delays services after volcanic ash closure. The report also notes that nepal flood search enters day 12 after four found alive. The report also notes that malaysia’s Serian declares emergency over choking haze.