BMKG Develops IBF System to Reduce the Impact of Disasters

JAKARTA - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) continues to develop an impact-based forecast system or Impact-Based Forecast (IBF) as an effort to strengthen mitigation and disaster risk reduction in Indonesia.

Head of BMKG Teuku Faisal Fathani said that the development of IBF was carried out in line with the strengthening of the weather, earthquake, and tsunami monitoring system, which is now supported by more than 10,000 monitoring devices throughout Indonesia. These devices are monitored through technical implementation units (UPT) and BMKG stations spread across 191 areas.

"With the existing network of monitoring tools, BMKG not only conveys weather information, but also begins to map the potential impacts that can be caused to the community," Faisal said in a statement, Tuesday, December 16.

He revealed that throughout 2025, more than 40,000 earthquakes were recorded in Indonesia. Of this number, 917 earthquakes were felt by the public, with 24 of them being destructive. These data are one of the important bases in the development of impact-based early warning services.

In addition to monitoring earthquakes and tsunamis, BMKG also operates a lightning detection device or lightning detector that has been installed at 38 UPT. This device serves to monitor the location and intensity of lightning to support the analysis of extreme weather conditions.

Through the IBF system, BMKG presents weather forecasts that not only contain the potential for events, but also the possible impacts. This information is complemented by recommendations for anticipatory steps that can be taken by stakeholders and the public.

"We can predict where and when lightning is likely to occur, as well as understand its impact based on the surrounding weather conditions," said Faisal.

In the IBF system, risk analysis is carried out by taking into account hazards, exposure, and vulnerability. This approach is expected to help various sectors in planning activities while reducing the risk of hydrometeorological disasters.

The development of this impact-based forecast is part of the BMKG's commitment to implement international guidelines, including those issued by the World Meteorological Organization as well as the United Nations framework for disaster risk reduction.