Ahead of Lunar New Year, North Surabaya Coast Submerged by Tidal Flooding

The northern coastal area of Surabaya, East Java, was hit by tidal flooding ahead of the 2026 Lunar New Year celebrations on Monday (16 February).

One of the worst-affected points was Jalan Tambak Osowilangon, where the flooding disrupted residents’ activities and road users. Floodwaters on the national road reached adult knee height, triggering lengthy traffic jams stretching to the Margomulyo three-way junction and the area around the Margomulyo Toll Gate.

A considerable number of motorcyclists were left stranded after their vehicles stalled while attempting to wade through the water.

“Stalled, stalled. If I’d known, I would have turned back and gone via Pakal,” complained one motorcyclist passing through the area.

To address the vehicle build-up, the Traffic Unit of Tanjung Perak Port Police immediately took action by diverting traffic flow at several critical points.

“For the time being, we have closed the traffic light patterns at Margomulyo. We are directing four-wheeled vehicles to enter the toll road, whilst two-wheeled vehicles are being directed via Tandes-Benowo through to Gelora Bung Tomo,” said Head of Traffic at Tanjung Perak Port Police, AKP Imam SR, in a separate statement.

The police urged the public to remain calm and follow instructions from officers on the ground for the sake of smooth traffic flow. Imam recommended alternative routes for those heading towards Gresik.

“We continue to advise four-wheeled vehicles to take the toll road if heading towards Gresik and exit at Romokalisari. For two-wheeled vehicles, they can go via Tanjung Sari, Tandes, through to Benowo. Please be patient and do not let ego take over by cutting in — follow the officers’ instructions for traffic diversions,” he concluded.