RADAR BLITAR – Thirteen years ago, on February 13, 2014, the Kelud eruption shook Blitar and surrounding areas, leaving a lasting mark in local memory. It is considered one of the largest eruptions in decades, even more intense than the 1990 eruption. Loud explosions, lightning strikes, and volcanic debris caused anxiety among residents near the slopes and neighboring regions.

The eruption’s volcanic material did not travel in a single direction. Wind shifts caused ash to spread widely. Initially, most of the ash moved southwest, reaching parts of Central Java. Later, changing winds carried the ash eastward, affecting Surabaya and nearby areas.

Despite the scale, the impact in Blitar was relatively mild compared to previous eruptions. Residents experienced ash and small volcanic rocks, but intensity remained low. In contrast, the 1990 eruption caused widespread damage across much of Blitar.

Some residents still chose to evacuate as a precaution. Supianto from Udanawu District recalled taking his family to Tulungagung during the eruption.

“My family evacuated to Tulungagung when Kelud erupted,” he said.

However, Supianto stayed behind to guard his home and belongings. His wife, children, and grandchildren evacuated, while he monitored the surroundings.

“I didn’t leave. Only my wife, children, and grandchildren went. I stayed to watch the house and check conditions,” he explained.

Fortunately, the eruption caused no major damage in Blitar. Supianto’s home and surrounding area remained mostly safe.

“Thankfully, the Kelud eruption didn’t severely affect Blitar,” he said.

The day after the eruption, he began cleaning volcanic ash and debris from the roof, walls, and yard. “By the next day, I was already cleaning everything,” he added.