Krakatoa (Gunung Krakatau) is a volcanic island in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra in Indonesia. It is part of Lampung province in Sumatra.
The eruption of Mount Krakatoa in 1883 was one of the most violent volcanic events on record. A huge explosion (150 megatons of TNT) occurred as seawater hit hot magma and turned instantly to steam. The blast was heard over 4,000 km away in Australia and India. The Volcano Explosivity Index (VEI) of the eruption was 6 (colossal). See volcanoes for background.
The whole volcano was destroyed because of the massive explosion. Parts of the volcano fell into the sea and caused a giant tsunami (40 meters). The dust from the eruption reached the stratosphere and affected weather worldwide for several years. More than 35,000 people were killed by tsunami and eruption. Only about a third of the pre-1883 island survived the blast.
From 1927 to 1930, there were several underwater eruptions on the site of the old Krakatoa volcano. On August 11, 1930, a new volcano and island appeared. This new volcano and island are called Anak Krakatau. (Child of Krakatoa).
See volcanoes for more general information.
From 1927 to 1930, there were several underwater eruptions on the site of the old Krakatoa volcano. On August 11, 1930, a new volcano and island appeared. This new volcano and island are called Anak Krakatau. (Child of Krakatoa).
The island of Anak Krakatau and the surrounding islands and seas are part of the national park of Ujung Kulon.
To enter the Kraktau area, tourists must obtain a permit from Balai Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam (BKSDA).
Nearby forest-covered islands include Sebesi and Rakata.. On the island of Sebesi, a small village houses a fishing community.
Nearby forest-covered islands include Sebesi and Rakata.. On the island of Sebesi, a small village houses a fishing community.
- Ujung Kulon National Park — the main part of the national park, on the mainland of Java and the island of Panaitan.
- Cilegon — the nearest larger city, on the mainland of Java.