Jakarta—Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) issued a statement on Tuesday, May 13, stating that multiple natural disasters, including flooding and landslides, have been reported across the country, prompting authorities to call for increased public preparedness and caution.
In Madiun Regency, East Java, heavy rainfall on Sunday led to the overflow of rivers, inundating Kenongorejo Village in Pilangkenceng District. Floodwaters reached depths of 50 to 100 centimetres, affecting 58 households and damaging an equal number of homes. Local disaster officials have completed assessments and coordinated with subdistrict officials. As of Monday, May 12, water levels have receded.
In Samarinda, East Kalimantan, prolonged and intense rainfall triggered widespread flooding across five districts—Samarinda Utara, Samarinda Ulu, Sungai Pinang, Samarinda Ilir, and Loa Janan Ilir—on Monday, at 10:00 WITA. The disaster claimed the life of one resident, identified as Ikhsan, and a 2.5-year-old boy remains missing after being swept away by floodwaters.
Material damage included 36 disrupted roads and two affected educational facilities. Water levels, ranging from 35 to 80 centimetres, had not receded as of the latest report, and search operations for the missing child are ongoing.
Additionally, landslides struck the city of Samarinda, killing two people and leaving two others missing. The disaster affected five districts and displaced 21 people, four of whom took refuge in shelters. At least four homes were severely damaged, two suffered light damage, and three others were impacted. A key roadway was blocked, and power outages were reported in the affected areas.
According to the Samarinda Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), emergency crews continued search and rescue operations on Tuesday, May 13.
BNPB urges all communities to remain alert and prepared for the ongoing risk of wet hydrometeorological disasters. “If heavy rain lasts more than an hour and visibility drops below 100 meters, evacuate immediately to a safer location,” warned Abdul Muhari, Ph.D., Head of BNPB’s Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Centre.
The agency also called on local governments to ensure readiness of personnel, equipment, and resources, and reminded the public to follow official information and avoid unverified rumours. (nsh)
Banner photo: Joint officers continue to search for missing victims due to landslides in Samarinda City, East Kalimantan Province (12/5) (Photo source: BPBD Samarinda City)
