Skip to main content

Krakatoa

Krakatoa (Indonesian: Krakatau), also spelled Krakatao or Krakatowa, is a volcanic island in the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra in Indonesia. The name is used for the island group, the main island (also called Rakata), and the volcano as a whole. It has erupted repeatedly, massively, and with disastrous consequences throughout recorded history. 


The best known eruption culminated in a series of massive explosions on August 26 - 27, 1883, which was among the most violent volcanic events in modern times. With a Volcanic Explosivity Index of 6, it was equivalent to 200 megatons of TNT — about 13,000 times the yield of the Little Boy bomb (13 to 16 KT) that devastated Hiroshima, Japan.

The 1883 eruption ejected more than 25 cubic kilometres of rock, ash, and pumice, and generated the loudest sound historically reported: the cataclysmic explosion was distinctly heard as far away as Perth in Australia approx. 1,930 miles (3,110 km), and the island of Rodrigues near Mauritius approx. 3,000 miles (5,000 km). Near Krakatoa, according to official records, 165 villages and towns were destroyed and 132 seriously damaged, at least 36,417 (official toll) people died, and many thousands were injured by the eruption, mostly from the tsunamis that followed the explosion.

The eruption destroyed two-thirds of the island of Krakatoa. Eruptions at the volcano since 1927 have built a new island in the same location, called Anak Krakatau (child of Krakatoa). This island has a radius of roughly 2 kilometers and a high point around 200 meters above sea level. The original island of Krakatoa had a high point at an estimated 2000 meters above sea level and had a radius of 9 kilometers.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

The Largest Islands in Indonesia: From Largest to Smallest

Indonesia, an archipelago in Southeast Asia, is the world's largest island country, consisting of more than 17,000 islands. These islands vary greatly in size, from massive landmasses like Sumatra and Borneo to tiny islets scattered across the oceans. Here's a detailed look at the largest islands in Indonesia, ranked from the largest to the smallest. 1. New Guinea (Papua) Area : Approximately 785,753 square kilometers (Indonesian portion: 421,981 square kilometers) Description : New Guinea, known as Papua in Indonesia, is the second-largest island in the world after Greenland. It is shared between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. The Indonesian part comprises the provinces of Papua, West Papua, South Papua, Central Papua, and Highland Papua. The island is famous for its diverse cultures and rich biodiversity, with dense rainforests, rugged mountain ranges, and a significant number of endemic species. 2. Borneo (Kalimantan) Area : Approximately 748,168 square kilometers (Indonesi...

5 Famous Bridges in Indonesia

5 Famous Bridges in Indonesia Indonesia is home to several iconic bridges that not only facilitate transportation but also stand as architectural marvels. Here are five famous bridges in Indonesia: 1. Suramadu Bridge The Suramadu Bridge, also known as the Surabaya-Madura Bridge, is the longest bridge in Indonesia. Spanning 5.4 kilometers, it connects the city of Surabaya on the island of Java with the town of Bangkalan on the island of Madura. The bridge, which opened in 2009, has significantly boosted economic activities in the region. 2. Ampera Bridge Located in the city of Palembang, South Sumatra, the Ampera Bridge is an iconic landmark that spans the Musi River. Completed in 1965, the bridge is a vital transportation link and a symbol of the city. It is especially striking at night when it is illuminated, creating a beautiful reflection on the river. 3. Barito Bridge The Barito Bridge, also known as Jembatan Barito, crosses the Barito River in South Kalimantan. Stretching over 1 k...

Sayur Asem Recipe

  **Sayur Asem Recipe** Sayur Asem, a classic Indonesian sour vegetable soup, is a beloved dish that offers a refreshing and tangy flavor. Originating from the Sundanese and Javanese regions, Sayur Asem is known for its unique blend of tamarind and assorted vegetables. This traditional soup not only provides a delightful taste but also showcases the simplicity and depth of Indonesian home cooking. The history of Sayur Asem is deeply rooted in the agricultural lifestyle of Java, where fresh vegetables and tamarind are readily available, making it a staple in many households. ### History of Sayur Asem Sayur Asem has been a part of Indonesian culinary heritage for centuries, particularly in Java and Sundanese regions. It reflects the agrarian culture, using locally grown vegetables and the distinctive sourness from tamarind. The dish has evolved over time, incorporating various local ingredients, but its essence remains the same—a light, tangy soup that complements the warm, tropical ...