How loud was the Krakatoa eruption?
The Krakatoa eruption was about 172 dB. Estimated from pressure gauge records 160 km away; heard 4,800 km away.
That is about 2,353 times as loud to the ear as normal conversation and 1.58e+11 times the sound energy.
Can it damage your hearing?
Yes, with enough exposure. At 172 dBA, NIOSH recommends a daily limit of less than a second. Peaks above 140 dB can cause instant damage. Wear earplugs or earmuffs, keep your distance and limit time near the source.
How sound level changes with distance
Decibel figures always depend on distance. For a small source in open air, every doubling of distance lowers the level by about 6 dB; indoors, reflections reduce that drop. Use the sound-vs-distance calculator to estimate the level where you are.
Sounds as loud as the Krakatoa eruption
More recordings elsewhere
- volcano_eruption.wav by smcameron – CC BY 3.0 (freesound)
- YasurVolcanoe-Vanuatu-TannaIsland-SmallEruption.wav by Hendrik – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- hot water gushing out of a metal tap.aif by Tomlija – CC BY 3.0 (freesound)
- Mud Volcanos - Salton Sea by RTB45 – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
- Mud Volcano Field - Salton Sea by RTB45 – CC0 1.0 (freesound)
Frequently asked questions
How many decibels was the Krakatoa eruption?
About 172 dB.
Is the Krakatoa eruption louder than a jet engine?
Yes – a jet engine at takeoff is about 140 dB at 30 m, while the Krakatoa eruption was about 172 dB.
How are these levels measured?
With a sound level meter, usually A-weighted (dBA) to match human hearing. Published figures depend on distance and conditions, so treat them as typical values.