Why the tsunami occurred Saturday night that killed about two tons and injured more than 700 people in Indonesia would be the one question being asked by everyone.
According to Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) they were unable to record any earthquake to occur on the night and there was a tidal wave in Anyer (Banten) and the surrounding area caused by a full moon.
Hours later it was discovered the tide was three meter high and this caused volcanic activity of Mount Anak Krakatau in Sunda Strait between Sumatra and Java.
BMKG head Dwikorita Karnawati said no tectonic activity was recorded in the area and it is suspected the tsunami was caused by eruption from the volcano Saturday night that damaged nearby seismometers.
However, seismic sensors in Cigeulis recorded 24 seconds seismic activity.
Meanwhile, connection between Anak Krakatau eruption and tsunami are being looked by Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), which said volcano had been active since June, but tsunami was ever seen from stronger eruptions.
PVMBG said in a press statement, “To trigger a tsunami that large, there needs to be a massive landslide that falls into the sea […] and that requires a large amount of energy, which has not been detected by seismographs in volcanic observation posts.”
Anyer Beach is about forty kilometers away from Anak Krakatau.
Tsunami expert said either the tsunami was caused by a landslide that resulted with Anak Krakatau eruption or sudden change in meteorological conditions.
