29 Dec 2018 | 03:03 AM UTC
Indonesia: Flights remain diverted due to ongoing volcanic eruption Dec. 29 /update 1
Highest aviation notice remains effective as of December 29 for ongoing Anak Krakatoa eruption in Sunda Strait; flight diversions expected to continue over near term
Event
The Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation (VONA) alert level for Anak Krakatoa (Lampung province) remains at red, the highest of four levels, as of Saturday, December 29, due to an ongoing eruption since Sunday, December 23. According to Indonesian authorities, the volcano is producing an ash cloud extending at least 7340 m (23,480 ft) high that is moving to the northeast. Flights through the region continue to be diverted due to the ash plume. Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), approximately 134 km (83 mi) to the east, is not affected by the diversions.
Context
Anak Krakatoa began a new phase of eruption on December 22, causing a tsunami in the Sunda Strait that killed at least 430 people. The volcano has continued to erupt; authorities issued a 5-km (3-mi) exclusion zone around the volcano and urged residents to take precautions to avoid ash inhalation.
Advice
Individuals in or traveling near the affected areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation and anticipate flight diversions and possible disruptions (e.g. delays and cancelations).
