JAKARTA – As millions of Indonesians conclude their journeys home following the extended Idul Fitri holiday, a series of escalating disasters are disrupting travel plans and prompting urgent warnings from authorities. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and ongoing forest fires are impacting regions across the archipelago, raising concerns for those returning to work, and school. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is urging travelers to exercise extreme caution and monitor weather updates as they navigate potentially hazardous conditions. This situation underscores Indonesia’s vulnerability to climate-related events, even as the country transitions towards its dry season.
The disruptions to the ‘mudik’ – the annual exodus that sees an estimated 50 million people travel across Indonesia – come as the country grapples with the tail end of an intense rainy season. While the dry season is officially expected in April, the BNPB has cautioned that heavy rainfall is likely to persist, increasing the risk of flash floods, landslides, and damaging winds. The peak return travel period is anticipated in two waves, March 24-25 and March 28-29, according to the National Police, who are preparing disaster response teams along major routes.
Flooding and Landslides Impact Multiple Regions
Over the weekend, several regions reported significant flooding and damage from severe weather. In West Java, heavy rainfall and strong winds damaged at least 18 homes across five villages in Cianjur, according to the BNPB. Flooding also impacted Depok, affecting nearly 700 households and forcing evacuations. Similar incidents were recorded in Mojokerto, East Java, and West Seram, Maluku, where over 100 households in each region were affected by rising waters. BNPB spokesperson Abdul Muhari assured that water levels were beginning to recede in these areas, as reported by Antara News.
East Jakarta also experienced widespread inundation, with the Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency reporting at least 46 neighborhood units flooded on Sunday due to overflowing rivers caused by heavy rains. The agency is coordinating evacuation efforts and providing assistance to affected residents.
Riau Forest Fires Continue to Disrupt Travel
Adding to the challenges, forest fires in Riau province remain unextinguished, impacting visibility and disrupting travel along key routes. The affected area has reached 2.4 thousand hectares, according to an infographic posted by the BNPB on X (formerly Twitter). The fires, which began earlier in the season, have contributed to hazardous air quality in the region and posed a risk to travelers.
🔥 Update terkini Kebakaran Hutan dan Lahan (Karhutla) di Provinsi Riau per 24 Maret 2026 pukul 18.00 WIB:
📍 Luas lahan terbakar: ± 2.400 Hektare
📍 Upaya Pemadaman: Terus dilakukan oleh tim gabungan dari BNPB, BPBD Riau, TNI, Polri, dan Manggala Agni.
⚠️ Waspada! Jaga kesehatan dan hindari aktivitas di luar ruangan jika tidak perlu. pic.twitter.com/aJqXq9zY8L— BNPB Indonesia (@BNPB_Indonesia) March 24, 2026
Weather Forecasts and Safety Measures
The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued forecasts for continued heavy rainfall in several regions, including Lampung, Banten, East Nusa Tenggara, and the Papua Mountains, from March 24 to 26. Strong winds are also predicted in the eastern part of the country. The BMKG cautioned motorists to be vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions during the holiday period. The BMKG website provides detailed weather updates and early warnings.
Early warnings for coastal flooding have been issued for East Nusa Tenggara, with the risk expected to persist through Tuesday. Authorities are advising residents in coastal areas to take necessary precautions and heed evacuation orders if issued.
Police Preparedness and Traffic Management
National Police Chief Gen. Listyo Sigit Prabowo has directed all units in disaster-prone areas to ensure their disaster task forces are fully prepared. He noted that weather forecasts and weather modification efforts have helped mitigate the risk of extreme rainfall, but vigilance remains crucial. Following Idul Fitri prayers on Saturday, which Prabowo deemed safe, the police have implemented traffic engineering measures to ease congestion and are urging the public to consider postponing travel or utilizing remote work options to avoid peak periods.
The ongoing situation highlights the importance of proactive disaster preparedness and the need for continued investment in early warning systems and infrastructure resilience. Indonesia’s geographical location and climate patterns make it particularly susceptible to natural disasters, requiring a coordinated and comprehensive approach to risk management.
Authorities will continue to monitor the weather situation closely and provide updates as needed. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and prioritize safety during their return journeys. The BNPB’s website (https://www.bnpb.go.id/) provides the latest information on disaster preparedness and response efforts.
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