Indonesia puts 605 troops on standby amid Anak Krakatau eruption

The Indonesian military has placed 605 personnel on standby to respond to any deterioration in the situation following the eruption of Anak Krakatau volcano.

The troops have been equipped with the necessary vehicles and supplies, including firefighting units, cargo trucks, field kitchens, ambulances and generators, Caliber.Az reports, citing Antara.

Meanwhile, authorities are continuously monitoring the volcano’s activity and maintaining contact with regional authorities and relevant agencies. The Indonesian military has urged local residents to remain calm and follow updates from emergency services.

Earlier, local authorities reported that ash from Anak Krakatau had reached Jakarta, although concentrations in the Indonesian capital remained low. Residents were advised to wear medical masks when going outdoors, keep windows, doors and ventilation openings in their homes closed, and turn off air conditioners.

The eruption, which began on the evening of September 4, sent a fountain of lava into the air, while a column of ash and smoke rose to more than 15,000 meters. According to Indonesia’s meteorological service, the sounds of the eruption could be heard as far as 700 kilometers away. No casualties have been reported so far.

Anak Krakatau became more active in July, prompting local authorities to raise the alert level to Level 3 on a four-point scale.

By Jeyhun Aghazada