Volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau threatens 3.3 million elderly across multiple provinces
Indonesia's Health Ministry warns that 3.3 million elderly people in areas affected by Anak Krakatau's volcanic ash face serious health risks, as the eruption continues to disrupt daily life across Banten, Jakarta, South Lampung and West Java.
Volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau threatens 3.3 million elderly across multiple provinces
Indonesia's Ministry of Health has raised alarm over the health risks facing approximately 3.3 million elderly people in regions blanketed by volcanic ash from Anak Krakatau, the active volcano located in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra. The eruption, which began late on September 4, has affected multiple provinces including Banten, South Lampung, Jakarta, and parts of West Java, sending ash plumes reaching approximately 50,000 feet (15 kilometers) above sea level.
"The sharp silica particles contained in volcanic ash make it dangerous to the lungs, eyes, and skin. When mixed with water, the ash can harden like cement, so improper cleaning can actually increase the risks," said Imran Pambudi, the ministry's Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups, on Monday.
The warning comes as Indonesia's elderly population has grown to represent 11.97 percent of the total population as of 2025, crossing the 10 percent threshold that officially marks the country as having an aging demographic. This expanding vulnerable population faces particular danger from the volcanic ash exposure.
Immediate and long-term health impacts
According to Pambudi, volcanic ash exposure can trigger acute respiratory infections, breathing difficulties, and worsen existing conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The cardiovascular system is also at risk, with increased danger of heart attacks and strokes among exposed populations.
Unlike smoke from forest and land fires, which tends to have longer-term cumulative impacts, volcanic ash produces immediate effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The eyes can become sore, watery, and easily irritated, while skin irritation and inflammation are common. Eye irritation from the ash can cause painful corneal abrasions and conjunctivitis, with contact lens wearers facing heightened risk.
Elderly individuals may experience confusion and reduced concentration following prolonged exposure. "Trauma from sudden evacuation and social isolation can add to the psychological burden," Pambudi added.
Volcano's dangerous history
Anak Krakatau, which emerged in 1927 from the underwater caldera left by the catastrophic 1883 Krakatau eruption that killed more than 36,000 people, has maintained high levels of activity in recent years. The volcano recorded the highest number of eruptions among Indonesian volcanoes in 2023, with 136 eruptions that year.
Most recently in 2018, an eruption from the volcano triggered a devastating tsunami that killed at least 437 people and injured thousands along the coasts of Sumatra and Java. Indonesia's alert level for Anak Krakatau was raised to Level III (Alert) on July 2, 2026, with authorities maintaining a 3-kilometer exclusion zone around the volcano.
The current September eruption has caused widespread disruption beyond health concerns, with eight airports including Soekarno-Hatta International Airport forced to halt operations. The closures disrupted thousands of flights and left more than 270,000 passengers stranded.
Comprehensive mitigation measures urged
Pambudi emphasized the need for comprehensive protective actions. The public must use masks and protective eyewear, seal openings in homes to prevent ash infiltration, and employ proper cleaning methods to avoid compacting the ash.
Families and caregivers of elderly individuals should ensure medications remain readily available, monitor for warning signs of health deterioration, and provide emotional support during this challenging period.
Healthcare facilities have been instructed to maintain supplies of oxygen concentrators, medications, salves, and eyedrops, while keeping personnel prepared for emergency evacuations. The ministry has activated its emergency response systems to address the health crisis affecting millions across the affected provinces.