Ash forced a major aviation shutdown
Indonesia’s Anak Krakatau volcano erupted and sent ash high into the atmosphere, forcing authorities to temporarily suspend operations at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport near Jakarta. Officials said 209 flights carrying roughly 22,800 passengers were affected, including domestic services and international routes.
The ash plume spread across a wide area
Reports said ash clouds reached as high as 50,000 feet in parts of the region. Volcanic ash is a serious hazard to aircraft because particles can damage engines and reduce visibility, which is why airlines and aviation authorities may cancel flights even when an airport is some distance from the volcano.
Communities were affected as well
The eruption disrupted school activities and fishing in some nearby areas, while residents reported irritation from ash. Authorities advised people to stay away from the volcano, limit exposure and use protective equipment where ash was falling.
No immediate tsunami threat
Officials said there was no immediate tsunami threat from this eruption. Anak Krakatau remains closely monitored because activity in the same volcanic system was linked to the deadly 2018 tsunami. Travelers should continue checking directly with airlines because schedules can take time to normalise.