Aceh Declares Disaster Alert Status until 20 April

The Aceh government has declared a hydrometeorological disaster alert status in several districts and cities until 20 April 2026. This policy was taken following an early warning of extreme weather from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). Previously, the BMKG predicted that the Aceh region could be hit by rain with moderate to heavy intensity, accompanied by strong winds and lightning in the coming days. This condition is influenced by cyclonic patterns, wind shifts, and convergence that increase rain cloud growth. The impacts mean that almost the entire Aceh region is at risk of experiencing hydrometeorological disasters such as flooding, landslides, and strong winds, especially during the period from 11 to 20 April 2026. Aceh’s Regional Secretary M. Nasir has instructed all district and city governments to activate 24-hour emergency posts, particularly in disaster-prone areas. “We ask the BPBD in districts and cities to activate posts and monitor weather developments in real-time together with the BMKG and BPBA. This period is very crucial to minimise risks,” said Nasir in his statement on Tuesday (14/4). Nasir stated that mitigation steps must not be delayed. Local governments are asked to immediately carry out normalisation of water infrastructure, including cleaning drainage, rivers, and dredging sedimentation to prevent water overflow. In addition, field officers are asked to increase patrols in flood-prone areas, landslides, and critical river basins (DAS). Then, instruct the mobilisation of the Quick Reaction Team (TRC) and the placement of heavy equipment at alert points. “Supporting facilities such as motorboats, evacuation vehicles, emergency logistics, to refugee tents we hope are ensured in ready-to-use condition,” he said. Evacuation routes and shelter locations are also asked to be re-verified to ensure the safety of residents during emergency conditions. Nasir also asked all regents and mayors to report situation developments regularly to the Aceh Government. “Do not let information be cut off. These preventive steps are expected to be able to minimise the impact of extreme weather during the alert period,” he said.