Indonesia: Significant flooding hits parts of Jakarta February 23-25

Event

Heavy rains from two tropical cyclones caused significant flooding in the Greater Jakarta area starting on Sunday, February 23. As of Tuesday, February 25, over 80 areas in Jakarta and the satellite cities of Bekasi and Tangerang are impacted by flooding. Water levels in some areas, including in Bekasi, reached as high as 30 cm (12 in), displacing almost 1000 people from their homes. Power outages and transportation disruptions have been reported throughout the capital area. Associated traffic disruptions, including road closures and longer travel times, are anticipated over the coming days.

Additional rain is forecast for Jakarta and the surrounding areas throughout Wednesday. February 27. Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued severe weather alerts for Banten, Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, Yogyakarta, East Java, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, South Sulawesi, and East Nusa Tenggara provinces. Further flooding, power outages, and transportation disruptions are possible.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to monitor the situation, avoid areas directly hit by flooding, allow additional time to travel, and adhere to any orders issued by the local authorities or their home governments.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs discarded. Be aware that the risk of contracting water- and mosquito-borne diseases tends to rise after periods of heavy rainfall.