Two new islands form near Mount Anak Krakatau after eruptions

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has detected two new islands northwest and southeast of Mount Anak Krakatau in the Sunda Strait following a series of continuous eruptions in early September 2026.

Acting Head of the Geological Agency Lana Saria said in a report in Jakarta on Thursday that the existence of the two new islands was confirmed through reports from mariners and volunteers, as well as an analysis of Sentinel satellite imagery as of Sept. 23.

"New islands were detected 760 meters from the coast of Anak Krakatau in the northwest sector and 495 meters from the coast in the southeast sector. If connected by a straight line, they form a northwest-southeast alignment, with the main crater located between them," she said.

According to Lana, the formation of the new islands is believed to be closely linked to the continuous eruptions of Mount Anak Krakatau from Sept. 4 to 6, 2026.

The 25-hour eruption during that period triggered a heavy lava flow that expanded the volcanic edifice by 32.8 hectares.

Although the emergence of the islands has been confirmed, she noted that the Geological Agency team still requires further data and analysis to determine whether they represent new eruption vents or accumulations of secondary eruptive material.

Following the downgrade of Mount Anak Krakatau's activity status from Level III to Level II effective Sept. 21, the Geological Agency issued updated hazard zones.

The public and tourists are prohibited from entering within two kilometers of the main crater and within one kilometer of the two new islands.

"We urge residents along the Banten and Lampung coasts to remain calm, ignore tsunami rumors, and follow safety instructions from the local Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD)," Lana added.

Translator: Bayu Prasetyo
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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