Environment & Climate
Anak Krakatau eruption sends ash clouds 50,000 feet into the atmosphere
ScienceDaily reports that the Indonesian volcano's prolonged eruption disrupted thousands of flights and affected air quality across Java.
The short version
- Indonesia's Anak Krakatau volcano erupted for over 24 hours, sending ash clouds up to 50,000 feet high.[ScienceDaily]
- The eruption forced eight airports across Java and Sumatra to close temporarily and disrupted nearly 3,000 flights.[ScienceDaily]
- Ash clouds degraded air quality in nearby regions, including Jakarta and parts of West Java.[ScienceDaily]
- Airports reopened as explosive activity subsided, though the volcano remains at Indonesia's second-highest alert level.[ScienceDaily]
Key facts
- Anak Krakatau erupted for more than 24 hours in early September 2026, reaching altitudes up to 50,000 feet.[ScienceDaily]
- The eruption led to the temporary closure of eight airports across Java and Sumatra and disrupted nearly 3,000 flights.[ScienceDaily]
- Air quality was impacted in Jakarta and parts of West Java following the plume's dispersion.[ScienceDaily]
- The volcano remains at the second-highest alert level on Indonesia's warning scale.[ScienceDaily]
What remains uncertain
- The potential long-term health impact of the dispersed volcanic ash on regional populations remains to be fully evaluated.[ScienceDaily]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Anak Krakatau blasts ash nearly 10 miles highScienceDaily - Environment