Jakarta Floods: Heavy Rain & Water from Tangerang Selatan Cited as Causes

Heavy rainfall and water flowing from Tangerang Selatan (Tangsel) are contributing to widespread flooding across Jakarta, Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo stated Friday. The flooding has impacted at least 127 RTs (Resident Units) and six major roadways as of 6:00 PM local time, according to the Jakarta Provincial Disaster Management Agency (BPBD).

“The current situation in Jakarta is due to high rainfall, particularly in the areas of Tangerang and Tangerang Selatan, where water is beginning to flow into Jakarta,” Governor Anung told reporters in Jakarta Selatan. He confirmed communication with the Head of the Water Resources Department regarding the escalating situation.

Water levels have reached as high as 1.5 meters in some areas, prompting the Jakarta provincial government to deploy water pumps to mitigate the flooding. Governor Anung expressed optimism that the water levels would recede quickly, noting that the sea is not currently experiencing tidal surges (“rob”).

The BPBD Jakarta reported that Jakarta Selatan is the most heavily affected area, with varying water depths ranging from 30 to 125 centimeters. Agency officials are coordinating with local Dinas (departments) for Water Resources, Public Works, and Fire and Rescue to clear drainage systems and provide essential supplies to affected residents.

According to Antara News, rainfall in Tangerang Selatan exceeded 200 millimeters, significantly contributing to the influx of water into Jakarta. Governor Anung indicated that the provincial government is prepared to implement weather modification operations (OMC) if rainfall exceeds this threshold, based on data received from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).

Governor Anung also stated that the Jakarta provincial government is collaborating with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to potentially extend weather modification efforts to surrounding areas. The Governor did not specify a timeline for potential OMC deployment.