Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia Sentinel — More than 1,700 households in Dompu Regency, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), were affected by severe flooding on the evening of Thursday, December 19, 2024. The disaster, which inundated residential areas in Woja and Dompu districts with water levels exceeding one meter, was triggered by prolonged heavy rainfall lasting over five hours, beginning at 5:30 PM local time.
“The data we’ve collected shows that a total of 1,708 families have been impacted by this flooding,” said Tajuddin, the Head of the Dompu Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), during an interview on Friday, December 20, 2024.
Impacted Areas
The affected households are spread across nine villages and urban wards in Dompu Regency:
- Dompu District:
- 55 families in Potu
- 85 families in Bada
- 75 families in Karijawa
- 85 families in Bali
- 30 families in Dore Bara
- 260 families in Mbawi
- Woja District:
- 348 families in Simpasai
- 360 families in Kandai II
- 410 families in Wawonduru
Infrastructure and Accessibility
The floods, laden with mud, not only submerged residential areas but also disrupted transportation in several locations. Key roads, such as those in Dore Bara and Mbawi, were inundated, significantly impeding traffic flow.
While damage to public facilities is still under assessment, the widespread impact underscores the need for continued vigilance and preparation.
Authorities Urge Caution
BPBD Dompu has urged residents to remain alert as the region enters the peak of the rainy season. According to Tajuddin, heavy rain and strong winds are likely to persist over the next 10 days, posing additional risks.
“People should be cautious about sudden heavy rain and strong winds when outside,” he advised, emphasizing the importance of safety during this period.
Tidal Flooding Persists for Five Days, Submerged Several Locations in North Jakarta
A Call for Preparedness
As the threat of further hydrometeorological disasters looms, local authorities are coordinating efforts to assess the damage, assist affected families, and prepare for potential future emergencies. The community is encouraged to stay informed, follow official updates, and take necessary precautions to safeguard lives and property.
Flooding is a recurring issue in Dompu during the rainy season, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to mitigate such disasters. This includes improving drainage infrastructure, enhancing community preparedness, and strengthening early warning systems.
The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the impact of climate-related events on vulnerable regions and the importance of coordinated disaster response efforts.
(Becky)
