Severe Flooding in Situbondo: Hundreds of Houses Submerged, Government Declares State of Emergency for Hydro-Meteorological Disaster

Kapanlagi.com - Severe flooding has once again struck Situbondo Regency, East Java, in recent days, causing concerning impacts. Heavy rain with high intensity has caused rivers to overflow, inundating residential areas and damaging various public facilities and existing infrastructure. In response to this emergency situation, the local government has taken proactive measures by declaring a state of emergency for hydro-meteorological disasters.

The Acting Regent of Situbondo, Nyai Khoirani, revealed that the Decree (SK) establishing the state of emergency has been signed on Wednesday (5/2) to expedite disaster response efforts. "The decree establishing the state of emergency for hydro-meteorological disasters has been signed by me on Wednesday (5/2), based on reports of natural disaster incidents," said Nyai Khoirani, as reported by ANTARA.

The flooding that has occurred over the past three days has had widespread effects in several districts. Hundreds of houses have been submerged, access roads have been cut off, and many residents have been forced to evacuate to safer places. In addition to the flooding, other threats such as landslides and strong winds have further worsened the situation, with fallen trees and disrupted access in several areas.

1. Flood Chronology: Heavy Rain to River Overflow

A heartbreaking disaster struck Situbondo since Monday (3/2) when heavy rain continuously poured down on the region. The overflowing river caused flash floods that submerged hundreds of houses in Tambak Ukir Village and Kendit Village, with around 20 houses suffering total damage.

Not only that, Melandingan Kulon Village and Sumberpinang Village in Melandingan District were also affected, where about 700 houses were inundated, residents' activities were disrupted, and rice fields and public facilities were damaged. On Tuesday (4/2), a landslide in Patemon Village cut off access between hamlets and isolated residents.

The peak of the disaster occurred on Wednesday (6/2) when the Lubawang River overflowed and inundated settlements in Kalianget Village with water levels exceeding 1 meter, forcing many residents to evacuate to Nurut Taufiq Mosque.

"This flood comes from the overflow of the Lubawang River, which is about 500 meters from the settlement," said Ali Said, one of the affected residents.

2. Disaster Impact: Houses, Infrastructure, and Agricultural Land Submerged

The flood that struck Dusun Ngabinan, Desa Patemon, has created very troubling impacts, submerging not only the residents' houses but also destroying vital infrastructure. The main bridge connecting the area has been cut off, leaving around 250 households trapped in isolation.

"The water comes from the overflow of the river and from the rice fields surrounding our school," said Principal Susiana. The teacher's room, the principal's room, and the administration room have all been submerged, forcing the teaching and learning process to be shifted online.

Not only that, the agricultural sector has also collapsed, with hundreds of hectares of rice fields ready for harvest submerged in the floodwaters, causing significant losses for the farmers. Even more sadly, dozens of livestock such as cows, sheep, and goats have been reported washed away by the current, adding to the suffering of the already devastated community.

3. Government Response: Emergency Status and Assistance for Victims

As a rapid response, the Situbondo Regency Government has declared a hydro-meteorological disaster emergency status to expedite handling efforts. "The local government has set up a public kitchen at the sub-district office in the areas affected by floods, flash floods, and landslides," explained Nyai Khoirani.

The Situbondo Regency BPBD has also proposed the use of unexpected expenditure funds (BTT) to assist the victims. Logistical assistance from the East Java Provincial BPBD and BNPB has begun to be distributed, including basic food supplies, tarps, mats, blankets, clothing, and equipment such as hoes and shovels.

4. Challenges on the Ground: Evacuation and Distribution of Aid

Although aid has started to flow, the evacuation process for residents is still hindered by various challenges. Many areas affected by the disaster are difficult to reach due to roads submerged in water and blocked by landslide debris.

Meanwhile, the distribution of aid must be carried out gradually considering the large number of affected residents. The local government has urged the community to remain vigilant and follow evacuation instructions for their safety.

5. Flood Prevention Efforts in the Future

The floods that struck serve as a valuable lesson about how crucial advanced early warning systems are. The government is expected to strengthen weather monitoring technology to provide information more quickly to the public.

Equally important, infrastructure improvements such as the construction of levees and drainage repairs must be a primary focus to minimize the risk of flooding in the future.

Additionally, educating the community about disaster preparedness is also essential, so that each individual is better prepared to face potential disaster threats.

6. Questions & Answers About Floods in Situbondo

1. What are the main causes of floods in Situbondo?

Flooding in Situbondo is caused by prolonged heavy rain that causes rivers to overflow and inundate residential areas.

2. Which areas are affected by the floods?

Several affected areas include Kendit District, Melandingan District, Bungatan District, and Banyuglugur District.

3. What steps has the government taken to address this flooding?

The government has declared a state of emergency, established public kitchens, distributed logistical aid, and evacuated affected residents.

4. How can flooding be prevented in the future?

Prevention can be achieved by improving drainage systems, building levees, enhancing early warning systems, and educating the community about disaster preparedness.

(kpl/rmt)