BMKG warns of heavy rain and strong winds in Batam

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning for potential rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds forecasted in Batam City and several areas of the Riau Islands. Weather in Batam has been predominantly cloudy since morning, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius. High humidity levels have increased the potential for rain cloud development, particularly during the afternoon and evening. BMKG Hang Nadim Airport forecaster stated that weather changes can occur rapidly, urging the public to remain vigilant, especially those outdoors. ‘Residents are advised to be cautious of potential rain with thunderstorms and strong winds, particularly from afternoon to evening,’ said the BMKG Hang Nadim Airport forecaster on Monday (25/5). Unpredictable weather has also been felt by coastal fishermen in various parts of Batam. They report having to be more cautious when fishing due to sudden wind and rain. Yudi, 34, a coastal fisherman in Batu Aji, said he now frequently checks the sky before heading out to sea. ‘The weather changes quickly now. It’s clear in the morning, but suddenly dark and heavy rain in the afternoon. We need to be more alert when strong winds come,’ he said. Similarly, Ismail, 25, a fisherman in Nongsa, said the current weather conditions are affecting fishing activities, especially for small-scale fishermen using traditional boats. ‘When there’s heavy rain and strong winds, we usually head back to shore quickly as waves become larger,’ he said. BMKG has reminded fishermen and maritime transport users to monitor weather updates before heading out. Although sea wave heights remain within safe levels, the potential for thunderstorms and strong winds must be heeded as they can reduce visibility and suddenly increase wave heights. The general public is also advised to carry umbrellas or raincoats when outdoors and to drive cautiously in the rain due to slippery roads and reduced visibility. In recent days, Batam’s weather has been fluctuating. Mornings are clear to partly cloudy, but dark clouds form in the afternoon and evening, triggering rain in several areas. BMKG urges the public to stay updated on weather information and early warnings via official channels to anticipate potential adverse effects in the coming days. BMKG forecasts heavy rain with thunderstorms and strong winds in Batam from afternoon to evening on Friday, 20 February. BMKG Batam released a weather forecast for the Riau Islands on 18 February 2026, warning of thunderstorms in Bintan and Tanjungpinang and sea waves up to 2.1 metres. Although overall weather appears stable, BMKG noted the possibility of light rain in some areas.