BMKG Calls Rob Floods In Bintan Influenced By Super New Moon Phenomenon

The tidal flood occurred on Jalan Merdeka, Tanjunguban, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands, Thursday. (ANTARA)

TANJUNGPINANG - Meteorology Agency, Geophysics Climatology (BMKG) Tanjungpinang City, Riau Islands stated that the tidal flood that occurred in recent days in several areas on Bintan Island was caused by the phenomenon of a super new moon eclipse.

BMKG Tanjungpinang forecaster Arifah Dwi Yuliani said the phenomenon of a super new moon or a new moon phase which coincides with the closest distance from the moon to earth since February 20, 2023, has the potential to increase the maximum sea level.

This condition caused sea water to inundate a number of coastal areas on Bintan Island. The tidal flood has the potential to occur until February 25, 2023.

"People around the coast of Bintan Island should always be vigilant and alert to anticipate the impact of the maximum tide of sea water," said Arifah as quoted by ANTARA, Wednesday, February 23.

In a number of areas in Tanjungpinang, such as Dompak, Dompak and Senggarang, tidal flooding occurred this afternoon. Meanwhile in Bintan, tidal flooding occurred in a number of coastal areas in Tanjunguban, Bintan.

However, the overflowing sea water to the road today is not as bad as the one day ago.

In addition to tidal flooding, BMKG also appealed to users of sea transportation, especially small ships, to be aware of sea waves that reach 2.5 meters in Bintan waters, while Tanjungpinang waters are 1.25 meters. The sea wave height is caused by the north wind season.

"We ask residents who use sea transportation, especially fishermen who use small boats, to be aware of sea waves that are quite high," said Arifah.

One of the residents of Bintan Tatang admitted that today's tidal flood was only as high as people's ankles. "Yesterday it reached 20-30 centimeters," said Tatang.