Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Tidal flooding, or banjir rob, has once again inundated areas along Jakarta’s northern coast, particularly in North Jakarta, on Sunday, December 15, 2024. The flooding, which has persisted for several days, continues to disrupt daily life and damage properties in the affected areas.
A video uploaded by the Instagram account @jakut.info captured the sudden onset of tidal flooding on Jalan Cipucang Gang 2, Koja, North Jakarta. According to the post, the water surged unexpectedly at around 9:20 a.m. local time, catching residents off guard. The rushing water entered homes, destroying furniture and electronic appliances.
Prolonged Tidal Flooding Expected
The Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD DKI Jakarta) has warned of potential tidal flooding in 10 northern coastal areas until December 20, 2024. In a statement shared on their Instagram account (@bpbddkijakarta), BPBD urged residents to remain vigilant.
“Be alert for tidal flooding in the northern coastal areas of DKI Jakarta from December 11 to December 20, 2024,” the agency wrote.
Scientific Causes of the Flooding
The flooding is attributed to a combination of natural phenomena. According to the Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) at the Tanjung Priok Class I Maritime Station, the flooding results from a maximum high tide coinciding with the full moon phase and a perigee, the point where the moon is closest to Earth.
These combined factors amplify the sea’s tidal height, leading to tidal flooding in low-lying coastal areas like North Jakarta.
The Impact on Residents and Infrastructure
Residents have reported significant damage, with water levels breaching homes and disrupting daily routines. In addition to damaging household items, the flooding poses health risks due to potential contamination from stagnant water.
Local authorities and disaster management teams are coordinating to mitigate further impacts, but the situation underscores the challenges faced by coastal communities as tidal flooding becomes more frequent.
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Long-Term Solutions Needed
North Jakarta has long been vulnerable to tidal flooding due to its geographical location and subsiding land levels, exacerbated by climate change and urban development. Experts have called for comprehensive measures, including improved drainage systems, coastal embankments, and sustainable urban planning, to protect residents from recurring disasters.
As tidal flooding is expected to persist in the coming days, authorities are urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to safeguard their safety and belongings.
(Becky)
