Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A powerful tornado swept through the Bendungan Melayu area in Tugu Selatan, Koja District, North Jakarta, early Saturday morning (March 22), leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Several homes were reportedly damaged as strong winds battered the neighborhood.
The incident quickly went viral on social media, with videos showing debris flying through the air, including corrugated metal sheets scattered along the streets. The footage captured the chaos as the twister tore through the area, causing significant damage.
Mohamad Yohan, Head of Data and Information at the Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD DKI Jakarta), confirmed the event. He stated that the tornado struck at approximately 3:00 a.m. local time and affected three community units (RW).
“The impacted areas include RW 01, RW 02, and RW 03. Residential homes and rental units suffered damage due to the strong winds,” Yohan was quoted as saying by Kompas.
Authorities are still assessing the extent of the damage. While numerous houses and rental properties were affected, Yohan assured that there were no reported casualties.
“There have been no casualties. The total losses are still being recorded,” he added.
Tornado strikes North Jakarta
One of the most striking videos of the event was uploaded by Instagram account @jakut.info, capturing the tornado’s sheer intensity. The footage showed strong winds kicking up dust and plastic debris, while parked trucks were buffeted by the powerful gusts. In the background, the person filming could be heard repeatedly shouting, “Storm, storm, storm!”
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The aftermath of the tornado revealed significant destruction. Images shared on social media showed rooftops torn apart, metal sheets and asbestos scattered, and several homes sustaining structural damage. A car parked in the area had its front left windshield shattered after being struck by falling debris.
“Based on reports we’ve received, several homes have been damaged, and some vehicles were affected by flying roof tiles and other debris,” read a caption from @jakut.info’s post.
Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage caused by the tornado while assisting affected residents. As cleanup efforts begin, officials urge the public to remain vigilant, especially during extreme weather conditions.
(Raidi/Agung)
