Volcanic ash exposure in Jakarta remains light: BPBD

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2 hours ago

Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) expects light volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, while warning conditions could change with wind direction and speed as ash spreads across nearby regions.

The agency based its assessment on BMKG monitoring that detected volcanic ash spreading across Jakarta, Banten and West Java.

BPBD Jakarta Chief Marulitua Sijabat urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant and follow official government information as authorities monitor the volcano’s activity.

Volcanic ash differs from ordinary dust because its fine particles can irritate the respiratory tract, eyes and skin, particularly among vulnerable people, he said.

Residents should wear medical masks outdoors because standard cloth masks do not provide optimal protection against fine volcanic ash particles, BPBD advised.

Residents should keep doors, windows and ventilation openings closed. They should also turn off fans or air conditioners that draw outside air indoors when ash affects local air quality.

People should limit outdoor activities, particularly infants, children, older adults, pregnant women and those with asthma, lung or heart disease.

If ash accumulates around homes, residents should wet it before cleaning. Sweeping dry ash can send fine particles back into the air, increasing the risk of inhalation.

Residents should cover food and water containers. Food or water contaminated by volcanic ash should not be consumed, BPBD said.

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

Jakarta residents can call the Jakarta Siaga emergency service at 112 to report emergencies within the capital, BPBD said.

The Geological Agency’s Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation Center, or PVMBG, said Anak Krakatau remains at Level III, or Alert (Siaga), its current status.

Anak Krakatau has remained at Level III since July 2. Strombolian eruptions have continued, while a continuous eruption was reported on Sept. 5, according to the Geological Agency.

BMKG said on Sunday that satellite analysis identified two volcanic ash clusters extending across Banten, Jakarta, West Java and Bengkulu, prompting intensified 24-hour monitoring.

The Jakarta provincial government continues coordinating with relevant agencies to monitor developments and maintain preparedness while urging residents to rely on official information.