BMKG warns of 4-meter waves in Indonesian waters through June 2

BMKG urges the public to remain vigilant, especially fishermen operating at sea.Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of waves reaching up to 4 meters in several Indonesian waters, posing risks to shipping safety.

BMKG Director of Maritime Meteorology Eko Prasetyo said in a statement on Saturday that maritime transport operators, ship captains, and traditional fishermen should pay close attention to vessel safety limits from May 30 to June 2.

“The potential for high waves in these areas poses risks to shipping safety. Therefore, BMKG urges the public to remain vigilant, especially fishermen operating at sea,” he said.

Eko said fishing boats are vulnerable when operating in winds exceeding 15 knots and waves higher than 1.25 meters, while barges face high risks in winds above 16 knots and waves exceeding 1.5 meters.

Safe operating conditions for ferries require wind speeds below 21 knots and waves of no more than 2.5 meters.

Large vessels such as cargo ships and cruise liners are advised to exercise caution when winds exceed 27 knots and waves rise above 4 meters.

The highest-risk areas include the North Natuna Sea, the northern Malacca Strait, and the Indian Ocean west of Aceh, where waves of 2.5–4 meters are forecast, driven by winds reaching 25 knots.

Moderate waves of 1.25–2.5 meters are also forecast in waters stretching from the Indian Ocean south of Java to East Nusa Tenggara, as well as the northern Makassar Strait, Sulawesi Sea, Banda Sea, and Arafura Sea.

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Translator: Arie Novarina