BMKG Warns of High Waves Up to 4m Across Indonesian Waters

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of potential high waves up to four metres in several Indonesian sea areas from 30 May to 2 June 2026. The conditions pose a risk to maritime safety, particularly for fishing vessels, barges, and ferry services. BMKG Maritime Meteorology Director Eko Prasetyo urged maritime transport operators, captains, and traditional fishermen to monitor weather conditions and vessel operational safety limits before sailing. ‘High waves in certain areas could endanger maritime safety. Therefore, BMKG advises the public to remain vigilant, especially fishermen using transport vessels,’ Eko stated on Saturday (30 May 2026). BMKG explained that fishing boats face high risk when operating with wind speeds above 15 knots and wave heights exceeding 1.25 metres. Barges are vulnerable to disruptions when wind speeds exceed 16 knots and waves surpass 1.5 metres. Ferry services should remain cautious when wind speeds approach 21 knots and wave heights reach 2.5 metres. For larger vessels such as cargo ships and cruise liners, risks increase when winds exceed 27 knots and waves surpass four metres. BMKG noted areas with potential high waves of 2.5 to 4 metres include the northern Natuna Sea, northern Malacca Strait, and the western Aceh Indian Ocean. These conditions are driven by winds reaching up to 25 knots. Additionally, moderate waves ranging from 1.25 to 2.5 metres are expected in other sea areas, including the southern Java to East Nusa Tenggara Indian Ocean, northern Makassar Strait, Sulawesi Sea, Banda Sea, and Arafura Sea. BMKG urged all maritime transport users and coastal communities to continuously monitor maritime weather updates to mitigate risks posed by high waves.