Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather alert predicting moderate to heavy rainfall across various regions of Indonesia from November 29 to December 5, 2024.
In its official statement on Friday (November 29), BMKG highlighted that multiple atmospheric phenomena are anticipated to influence Indonesia’s weather during this period. These include cyclonic circulation in areas such as the Malacca Strait, the southern waters of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), and the Halmahera waters, alongside the Dipole Mode Negative phenomenon, which enhances evaporation and cloud formation in the country.
Additionally, the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is currently active over western and central Indonesia, supported by Rossby and Kelvin waves. These factors are expected to trigger high-intensity rainfall in various regions.
Key Factors Driving Indonesia’s Weather
Several atmospheric phenomena are contributing to the intense weather forecast, including:
- Cyclonic Circulation: Detected in areas like the Malacca Strait, southern waters of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), and the Halmahera Sea, this phenomenon enhances cloud formation and rain.
- Dipole Mode Negative: This weather pattern increases evaporation and moisture over Indonesia, boosting the development of rainclouds.
- Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO): Currently active over western and central Indonesia, the MJO contributes to higher rainfall intensity.
- Rossby and Kelvin Waves: These atmospheric waves further amplify the likelihood of significant rainfall in both western and eastern parts of the country.
BMKG stated that the combination of these factors would likely lead to widespread heavy rainfall, with some areas experiencing extreme downpours.
Regions at Risk of Heavy Rainfall
BMKG has identified several areas with increased risk of moderate to heavy rain:
- Sumatra: Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, Riau, Jambi, South Sumatra, Bengkulu, Lampung, and the Bangka Belitung Islands.
- Java and Bali: Banten, Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, Yogyakarta, East Java, and Bali.
- Nusa Tenggara: West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
- Kalimantan: All provinces—West, Central, North, East, and South Kalimantan.
- Sulawesi: All regions, including North Sulawesi, Gorontalo, Central Sulawesi, West Sulawesi, South Sulawesi, and Southeast Sulawesi.
- Maluku and Papua: Maluku, North Maluku, and all regions of Papua, from the Highlands to the southern coastal areas.
Areas with Extreme Weather Potential
BMKG specifically warned that West Kalimantan could face heavy to very heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, regions like Lampung, Banten, Central Java, and East Java are at risk of strong winds.
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Preparedness and Safety Measures
BMKG has urged the public to stay vigilant against potential hydrometeorological disasters, such as floods, landslides, and strong winds. Communities are encouraged to monitor updates from BMKG’s official channels to stay informed about changes in Indonesia’s weather conditions.
“Given the combination of these atmospheric phenomena, the risk of severe weather is elevated. We advise all residents to remain cautious and take necessary precautions,” BMKG stated in its advisory.
Stay Updated
For accurate and up-to-date information on Indonesia weather, follow BMKG’s official platforms.
(Becky)
