The State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN): BMKG Warning: Beware of Potential Extreme Weather in Labuan Bajo during Nataru

A number of tourist boats while berthed in the waters of Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency (Mabar), East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). (ANTARA/Gecio Viana)

JAKARTA - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) appeals to residents and tourism actors in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai Regency (Mabar), East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) to be aware of the potential for extreme weather in the Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 (Nataru) period.

"In this Nataru period, in addition to being in the rainy season, we are also heading towards the peak of the rainy season in January 2026," said the Head of the Komodo Meteorology Station, Maria Seran, when contacted in Labuan Bajo, Sunday.

He said the rainy season in NTT Province was usually also marked by the potential for additional rainfall, because there were disturbances in the atmosphere and sea such as the formation of low pressure areas that could increase to cyclone seeds.

"Then through the Equatorial Rossby Wave, the Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO) which when in NTT will certainly affect the amount of rainfall that falls in that place," he said.

Furthermore, the 93S cyclone seed that had added rainfall in West Manggarai some time ago is now getting further away, and no longer affects the weather in the West Manggarai area. The rain that occurs now is only because it is in the rainy season.

However, currently, another low pressure area in the north of Australia has been observed, resulting in the formation of turning areas, meeting areas and slowing down wind speeds in the NTT area.

"However, this low-pressure signal has not affected the weather in West Manggarai, but for other NTT areas such as Timor, Alor, Lembata, there has been an increase in rainfall due to the presence of low pressure areas," he said.

Even though he still increased vigilance and caution, he also asked residents and tourists in West Manggarai not to worry too much, considering that the current weather conditions are still part of the normal rainy season in NTT.

"For marine tourism and shipping, it is advised to be more vigilant during heavy rain and strong winds, and to always monitor the latest weather information," he said.

He also asked road users on the Labuan Bajo-Ruteng route to be careful when it rains, because of course the roads will be slippery and visibility will be reduced.

The public and tourists are also advised to regularly follow official BMKG information so that activities remain safe and comfortable.

"Be alert, but still normal in your activities," he said.