Heavy Rains and Strong Winds Hit Sumatra-Java Since Yesterday, Thousands of Houses Affected

Illustration of flooding in Kudus, Central Java (BNPB doc)

JAKARTA - The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) recorded that flooding and strong winds still dominate the disasters that occurred in the period from April 7 to April 8, 2026 morning. A number of areas in Sumatra to Java were reported to be affected, with thousands of residents' houses submerged and dozens of others damaged.

Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center, Abdul Muhari, said the report was compiled from various Regional Disaster Management Agencies (BPBD) in the affected areas.

"The Directorate of Emergency Operation Control Coordination of the BNPB has recorded that flooding and strong winds still dominate the disaster events in this period," said Abdul Muhari in his statement, Wednesday, April 8.

The most widespread flooding occurred in Bengkulu City. Heavy rain in the early morning triggered puddles with water levels reaching 30 to 100 centimeters and submerging 26 villages in eight sub-districts.

A total of 2,855 homes were affected, including one place of worship and one educational facility. Local BPBD officers immediately carried out assessments, data collection, and evacuation of residents trapped in the flood.

"Officers were immediately lowered to conduct assessments, data collection, distribution of logistical assistance, and evacuation of residents trapped in the flood," he said.

Evacuation tents have also been prepared to anticipate the needs of residents. Although the water began to recede on Tuesday, officers are still on standby to anticipate the possibility of subsequent flooding.

A similar condition occurred in Central Bengkulu Regency. Nine villages in three sub-districts were affected by the flood which occurred since Sunday, April 5. A total of 219 families were recorded as affected, with the most spread in Karang Tinggi Sub-district.

Officers conducted a quick survey and evacuated residents during the flood. Until the last report, the condition in the area was gradually normal.

In South Kalimantan, flooding also hit Tanah Abang Village, Mataraman District, Banjar Regency. A total of 74 families or 180 people were affected with a water level of 130 centimeters.

Even though the water has receded, BNPB reminded of the potential for flooding to return due to the geographical conditions of the area which is lower than the surrounding areas.

"Officers continue to monitor the situation because the area has a lower terrain than other villages around it, so it has the potential to rise again when it rains heavily or gets overflowed from other areas," he said.

In addition to flooding, extreme weather in the form of heavy rain accompanied by strong winds also occurred in Nganjuk Regency, East Java. This event caused dozens of houses to experience minor damage, especially to the roof, and toppled a number of trees.

A total of 62 houses were affected in two villages, namely Ngadipiro Village and Wilangan Village. One public cemetery facility (TPU) was also affected by the fallen trees.

Officers and residents carried out emergency handling and cleaning of tree materials. The weather conditions at the location were reported to have improved.

BNPB reminded the public to remain vigilant in facing the transition period from the rainy season to the dry season which has the potential to trigger extreme weather.

"BNPB urges the public to remain vigilant against the potential for extreme weather during the transition from the rainy season to the dry season, such as strong winds, extreme rain, tornadoes, floods, and high waves," he explained.

In addition, the public is also asked to increase their readiness to face other potential disasters, including earthquakes. One of them is by preparing a disaster standby bag and an emergency plan as a step of preparedness.

BNPB also reminded residents living on the banks of rivers to routinely monitor water levels and immediately carry out self-evacuation if heavy rains last long.