BMKG Warns La Nina Weak, Beware Of Hydrometeorological Disasters Until April 2025

Illustration of Jakarta floods (ANTARA)

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) appealed to the public to be aware of the impact of the La Nina Weak phenomenon which will take place from the end of 2024 to April 2025.

This phenomenon is estimated to increase rainfall by 20'40 percent, potentially triggering hydrometeorological disasters such as floods, landslides, and tornadoes.

"We remind the public, especially those living in hills, mountain slopes, and riverbanks, to prepare themselves. This phenomenon can have a significant impact on weather conditions," said Head of BMKG, Dwikorita Karnawati, Saturday, November 23.

Dwikorita explained that the deviation of sea level temperatures in the Pacific Ocean and the Indies, which triggered La Nina Weak, was the main factor in increasing rainfall. Despite the risk of causing disasters, this phenomenon also brings positive opportunities if properly mitigated.

"Equent rainfall can be used to support food security, reservoir filling, and the operation of hydroelectric power plants," he said.

BMKG recommends the use of rainwater through rainwater farming to anticipate drought. In addition, the acceleration of planting and optimizing infrastructure such as dams and drainage is considered crucial in dealing with this phenomenon.

Dwikorita emphasized that the La Nina mitigation step was in line with the Asta Cita Program, which was initiated by President Prabowo Subianto, in order to achieve food and energy self-sufficiency.

BMKG also supports farmers through short-term climate prediction services for the next six months, as well as the Climate Lapang School (SLI) program which has reached more than 20,000 farmers.

"Accrete weather and climate information must be followed by concrete actions from various sectors, including transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, to energy," concluded Dwikorita.

La Nina is not only a threat, but also an opportunity. With proper mitigation, Indonesia can optimize its benefits while minimizing the bad effects.