Bekasi Hit by Floods, Head of BMKG Reveals Weather Modification Has Been Conducted in Jabodetabek

Kapanlagi.com - Since yesterday, the Bekasi area and its surroundings have been hit by severe flooding that has trapped thousands of residents in distress and completely paralyzed daily activities in several points. Continuous heavy rain, combined with overflow from upstream rivers, has been the main cause of the worsening disaster.

The government, through the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) and the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), is working to address this situation by conducting weather modification. The aim is to control rainfall and divert rainwater to safer locations, especially in densely populated areas. However, despite these measures being taken, Bekasi is still experiencing quite severe flooding, raising a significant question: how effective is weather modification in addressing flooding issues in urban areas?

According to Prof. Dwikorita Karnawati, Head of BMKG, weather modification is one of the disaster mitigation strategies that has been implemented in recent times. The main focus of this modification is the Jabodetabek area—Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi—which is known for its high rainfall and potential to cause flood disasters. Here is more detailed information, summarized by Kapanlagi.com, Wednesday (5/3).

1. BMKG's Strategy in Weather Modification to Control Rain

BMKG is now adopting innovative weather modification techniques by seeding hygroscopic materials such as salt (NaCl) into clouds that have the potential to produce rain. The goal is clear: to accelerate the condensation process so that rain can fall in specific locations before those clouds reach flood-prone areas.

With this strategy, it is hoped that the volume of rain that falls in areas already vulnerable to flooding can be minimized. Weather monitoring is also conducted intensively to find optimal points for cloud seeding, involving collaboration with various parties to analyze cloud movement and predicted rainfall intensity.

However, the effectiveness of this method remains influenced by dynamic weather conditions and an unpredictable atmosphere. BMKG reminds that weather modification is not an instant solution, but rather part of a mitigation strategy that must be combined with other measures such as improving drainage systems and urban spatial planning.

2. The Role of BNPB in Weather Modification Operations in Jabodetabek

BNPB (National Disaster Management Agency) plays a crucial role in weather modification efforts to control the potential heavy rainfall that can trigger floods in urban areas. By preparing the necessary infrastructure and logistics, BNPB collaborates with BMKG (Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency) to operate aircraft that seed clouds with salt.

This operation is carried out in stages, starting from cloud monitoring to seeding conducted by aircraft. The speed and accuracy in determining the location for seeding are critical, so that rain can be diverted to safer areas such as the sea or reservoirs. The goal is clear: to reduce the risk of flooding in densely populated areas like Bekasi and Jakarta.

“If not brought down, those clouds will cluster and accumulate, as happened yesterday with a collection of clouds, if we look from the satellite, that cloud cover is almost as large as the area of West Java Province. So, West Java Province, from the satellite, is already covered by clouds. In fact, it extends to Lampung and Palembang,” added Dwikorita Karnawati.

However, BNPB emphasizes that weather modification is not the only solution to prevent floods. Increasing river capacity, optimizing drainage systems, and regulating illegal buildings on riverbanks are also important steps that must be taken to reduce flood risks in the long term.

3. BMKG Prediction: Heavy Rain Will Continue

BMKG has issued a warning that high rainfall is predicted to continue until mid-March 2025, particularly in the Jabodetabek area, including Bekasi, where rain with moderate to heavy intensity is still expected to occur.

The public is urged to remain vigilant against the possibility of subsequent flooding, considering that recent extreme weather phenomena triggered by climate change and global atmospheric dynamics have made rainfall patterns increasingly difficult to predict.

In an effort for mitigation, BMKG encourages residents to routinely monitor weather information through official channels to prepare for the challenges of extreme weather and take anticipatory measures to minimize the impact of flooding.

4. Impact of Floods on Residents and Response Measures

The floods that hit Bekasi have created a humanitarian crisis, forcing thousands of residents to leave their homes and seek shelter in overcrowded evacuation centers. With water inundating residences to over one meter, many properties and infrastructure have suffered severe damage.

In an effort to respond to this disaster, the local government, together with BNPB, acted quickly, distributing logistical aid and conducting evacuations to rescue trapped residents. However, significant challenges remain, particularly access to isolated areas that are submerged.

Rescue teams continue to struggle in various locations, committed to ensuring the safety of those still trapped in the flood zones. Amid this tense situation, the government reminds the public to always follow evacuation instructions to avoid greater risks due to rising water levels.

5. FAQ

Is weather modification effective in preventing floods?

Weather modification aims to reduce the intensity of rainfall in flood-prone areas by inducing rain in safer areas, such as the sea or reservoirs. This step is expected to minimize the volume of water entering urban areas, thereby reducing the risk of flooding. However, its effectiveness depends on atmospheric conditions and proper implementation.​

What is the role of reforestation in upstream areas in preventing floods?

Reforestation in upstream areas, such as tree planting, can enhance the soil's absorption capacity for rainwater, thus reducing the volume of water flowing downstream. This step is an effective long-term effort in reducing the risk of flooding in urban areas.​

What should communities do when facing predictions of extreme weather?

Communities need to prepare umbrellas, jackets, and raincoats for the rainy season to keep their bodies dry and warm. Then, maintain body endurance by drinking plenty of water and ensuring proper food intake to adapt to unpredictable weather conditions.

(kpl/rmt)