Change Of Season, BNPB: Beware Of Whirlwind

JAKARTA - The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has asked the public to be aware of the potential for tornadoes in the first weekend of March 2021. The incident occurred in two places, namely the Province of Bangka Belitung Islands and Lampung.

"There are no casualties due to a phenomenon that usually occurs during the changing seasons," said Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information and Communication Center Raditya Jati in his statement, Sunday, March 7.

Based on BNPB data from early January to March 6, 2021, the total number of recorded disasters was 723 incidents. Of the total disasters, 171 incidents were tornado.

So far, this disaster has severely damaged 209 houses, 513 moderately damaged and 2,195 houses damaged. Apart from the impact of the damage, the disaster also resulted in the death of 1 citizen and 36 injuries.

Therefore, residents are advised to be careful when tornadoes occur as the seasons change. In the event of strong winds or tornadoes, residents are recommended to take shelter in sturdy buildings.

"Do not take shelter under trees or near boards and avoid sharp objects that can easily be carried away by strong winds," explained Raditya.

For information, previously the BNPB Operations Control Center (Pusdalops) reported a tornado occurred in the Bangka Belitung Islands on Friday, March 5. The incident was located in Teladan Village, Toboali District, South Bangka Regency, triggered by heavy rain accompanied by strong winds at noon.

"A total of 51 families were affected. Their houses were damaged at different levels. The local BPBD is still verifying the level of damage in the field," said Raditya.

The day before, a similar phenomenon also occurred in Lampung Province, Thursday, March 4. The incident occurred in Margototo Village, Metro Kibang District, East Lampung Regency.

Local BPBD data recorded 69 families affected by the incident. In addition, BPBD identified 52 lightly damaged houses and 9 severely damaged houses. Not only the housing sector was damaged, but also the mushroom cultivation areas and local livestock.

"Responding to this incident, BPBD together with other related partners conducted data collection and assistance to affected residents. BPBD sent logistical assistance in the form of food, school and family equipment," said Radityo.