Locations Affected: Indonesia
Heavy rainfall since 03 March have triggered flooding across the Jabodetabek metropolitan area, which includes Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, Bekasi, and parts of Banten province. The flooding has caused the Ciliwung River to burst its banks, inundating over 1,000 houses and affecting more than 124,000 people. Bekasi and Banten provinces are the most affected regions, followed by Jakarta and Depok.
Impact of the Floods
- Travel has been disrupted due to flooded roads, including Jalan Basoka Raya, Jalan Strategi Raya, Jalan Komplek Joglo Baru, and Jalan Puri Kembangan in West Jakarta, as well as Jalan Puri Mutiara in South Jakarta.
- Landslides and strong winds have been reported in Bogor Residency. Flooding has damaged multiple bridges in Bogor. Authorities have begun constructing temporary bridges to ensure residents are not cut off.
- Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has raised the alert level to the second-highest critical stage and instructed local authorities to activate water pumps to drain flooded areas.
- The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has scheduled weather modification operations from 04–08 March in Puncak Bogor to mitigate the risk of further flooding. The operation involves deploying salt flares into clouds to induce rainfall before they reach land, thereby reducing rainfall intensity—the primary cause of floods in low-lying areas.
- Rescue operations are ongoing to evacuate residents trapped in the floods. Authorities have set up temporary shelters and started distributing food, medication, and other essential supplies to evacuees.
Forecast and Recommendations
Flooding is expected to persist as heavy rainfall is forecast to continue until 11 March. Landslides and flooding may hinder evacuation and relief efforts. Residents living near riverbanks, in flood-prone areas, and in landslide-prone zones are advised to remain on high alert. Damage to utility infrastructure could disrupt power and communication services. Travel disruptions may continue until roads are cleared of excess water and debris. Flight delays and cancellations are possible depending on weather conditions. Organizations should stay updated on weather developments and prepare necessary contingency plans.
