Everything Everywhere Daily The Eruption of Krakatoa (Encore)
Jun 6, 2025
On August 27, 1883, a catastrophic volcanic eruption obliterated Krakatoa, reshaping the region and affecting climates worldwide. The podcast discusses the eruption's tectonic context and the series of explosive events that led to one of the 19th century’s most destructive disasters. Surprising global climatic changes followed, impacting agriculture and life across the planet. It also covers the aftermath, highlighting the formation of Anak Krakatoa and ongoing preservation efforts in the area.
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Global Impact of Volcanic Eruptions
- Volcanoes can affect the entire planet, unlike mostly localized hurricanes and earthquakes.
- The Krakatoa eruption was the loudest explosion ever recorded and triggered global atmospheric effects.
Krakatoa's Tectonic Origin
- Krakatoa formed due to tectonic activity at a subduction zone where the Australian plate sinks under the Eurasian plate.
- Indonesia has 130 active volcanoes, the most of any country, because of this tectonic setting.
The 1883 Krakatoa Explosive Eruption
- On August 27, 1883, Krakatoa erupted with three violent explosions; the last one was the most powerful.
- The sound was heard thousands of miles away and burst sailors' eardrums 100 miles distant.