Anak Krakatau Alert Raised to Level III Amid Rising Magma

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Heightened volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau, driven by a continuous supply of magma moving toward the surface, has prompted authorities to raise the volcano's alert level from Level II (Caution) to Level III (Alert) on Friday, July 3, 2026.

The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources announced the status upgrade following a significant surge in both visual and instrumental indicators at the volcano, located in the Sunda Strait between the western coast of Lampung and Banten.

Acting head of the Geological Agency, Lana Saria, said in Jakarta on Friday, July 3, 2026, that the decision was based on recent monitoring data showing a spike in volcanic earthquakes, structural deformation of the volcano, and surface activity indicating that magma is accumulating in shallower depths.

“This increase in activity indicates a supply of magma to the surface, so the public and tourists are requested not to approach the active crater within the recommended radius,” Lana said, as quoted by Antara.

Furthermore, tiltmeter data recorded across several observation stations pointed to inflation, a geological swelling that signifies a buildup of pressure within the volcano’s body.

In response to the growing threat, the Geological Agency has issued an exclusion zone, warning residents, fishermen, and tourists to stay at least five kilometers away from the active crater to avoid potential hazards from eruptions or the ejection of incandescent materials.

People living along the coastlines of the Sunda Strait have been urged to remain calm but vigilant, and to strictly follow instructions from local administrations and volcano monitoring officials.

Local administrations and relevant agencies have also been instructed to ready mitigation plans and strengthen coordination in anticipation of any further escalation in volcanic activity.

The Geological Agency emphasized that round-the-clock monitoring of Anak Krakatau remains intensive, utilizing a network of seismic sensors, deformation trackers, and visual observations to ensure any developments are detected early. ***