Amid Continuous Rain, Pasaman Barat Regency Prepares BPBD Personnel and Equipment

Simpang Empat (ANTARA) - The Pasaman Barat Regency Government in West Sumatra has mobilised personnel and equipment from the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) in response to the current high rainfall, while also reminding the public to stay alert to potential natural disasters. “Over the past week up to now, Pasaman Barat has been continuously lashed by rain. BPBD personnel are on standby in case of natural disasters such as floods and landslides. In addition, they are also communicating with sub-district officials and disaster preparedness groups in villages or hamlets,” said the Regent of Pasaman Barat, Yulianto, in Simpang Empat on Thursday. According to him, personnel remain ready to anticipate potential disasters that may occur due to the high rainfall. “Equipment such as rubber boats, tents, and other gear is also prepared if needed in emergency conditions,” he said. The Secretary of the Pasaman Barat BPBD, Refi Putra, stated that the high rainfall in the area has the potential to trigger several hydro-meteorological disasters in Pasaman Barat, including floods, flash floods, landslides, puddling, strong winds, high waves in coastal areas, lightning risks, and slippery roads that could disrupt public activities. “For the past few days, the rain has not stopped in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Therefore, let us continue to increase our vigilance to anticipate these natural disasters,” he urged. “The public is also expected to provide information quickly if there is a natural disaster, so that officers can quickly respond in the field to provide assistance,” he hoped. Pasaman Barat is one of the disaster-prone areas in West Sumatra. At the end of November 2023, the region was also affected by disasters such as floods and landslides, which resulted in fatalities and damage to houses and agricultural land.