BNPB warns East Java residents to be alert to extreme weather

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has reminded the public to increase vigilance and prepare independent mitigation steps to face the potential for extreme weather that is predicted to continue affecting several regions in Indonesia, particularly East Java. Head of the BNPB Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Centre Abdul Muhari in Jakarta on Friday stressed the importance of such preparedness, drawing from the recent flash flood in Pasuruan City and strong winds that damaged seven residents’ homes in Semen Village, Paron Subdistrict, Ngawi Regency, East Java. “BNPB urges the public to stay away from large trees, billboards, or fragile building structures during strong winds to avoid the risk of being hit by falling debris,” he said. He explained that residents living in areas prone to wet hydrometeorological disasters need to identify safe evacuation routes and not hesitate to carry out independent evacuations if heavy rain occurs with high intensity over a long duration. For example, for communities living along riverbanks, BNPB requests regular monitoring of water levels as an early detection of potential overflows that could happen at any time. “We also encourage the public to continue updating weather information from official institutions like the BMKG so that every anticipatory step can be taken earlier and on target,” he said. Abdul added that the role of local governments is crucial in ensuring that early warning systems function well and providing clear guidance to residents in vulnerable spots. Vigilance is the main key; by knowing the potential hazards in their respective environments, we can minimise the risk of fatalities or material losses due to disasters. BNPB reported that Ngawi Regency, East Java, was hit by extreme weather on Wednesday (22/4) afternoon at 14:50 WIB, triggered by high-intensity rain accompanied by strong winds, causing damage to the roofs of several residents’ homes. The incident occurred in Semen Village, Paron Subdistrict, affecting seven households and seven housing units damaged by the strong winds. The day before, 100 households in Pasuruan City, East Java, were impacted by flooding due to the overflow of the Welang River after heavy rain lashed the area. Quick response teams from the Ngawi and Pasuruan Regency BPBDs are already at the scene to conduct rapid impact assessments, such as recording affected residents, basic needs items, and mitigating potential follow-up disasters.