Papuaaround.com – The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that 1,023 households in Jayawijaya Regency, Papua Pegunungan, have been affected by flooding. The disaster occurred as a result of heavy rainfall on Friday, April 25, 2025, which led to river overflow, submerging 24 districts in the region.
Abdul Muhari, the Head of BNPB’s Data, Information, and Communication Center for Disaster Management, explained that the flooding was triggered by intense rainfall that caused rivers to overflow, flooding several districts. The disaster response team quickly identified the worst-hit areas and has been working to provide emergency assistance.
As part of the emergency relief efforts, a team from the Directorate of Victim and Refugee Handling at BNPB’s Emergency Response Deputy Office arrived at the affected areas on May 1, 2025. The team delivered essential supplies, including 200 mats, 200 blankets, 100 hygiene kits, 200 sets of adult and children’s jackets, 200 sets of clothing for both adults and children, 50 sets of cooking equipment, two generators, 200 pairs of boots, 200 raincoats, 50 units of velbeds, and 200 packages of food supplies.
The Regent of Jayawijaya has declared a state of emergency for flooding and landslides, which will remain in effect for 14 days, from April 25 to May 8, 2025. This move aims to provide a framework for effective disaster management and ensure that the affected residents receive timely assistance.
BNPB also issued a public advisory urging residents to remain vigilant against the ongoing risk of natural disasters, including floods, landslides, and strong winds. In addition to staying informed about weather conditions, the public is encouraged to maintain environmental cleanliness, reinforce the structures of their homes, and prepare emergency kits for unforeseen situations.
“It’s crucial for the public to monitor extreme weather updates and follow local government instructions when dealing with disasters,” said Muhari.
The Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has forecasted moderate to heavy rainfall in the Papua Pegunungan region from May 1 to May 3, 2025. The forecast is influenced by the presence of Tropical Cyclone 99W in the northern part of the Maluku Sea and a combination of climatic phenomena such as the Madden-Julian Oscillation, Kelvin Waves, Rossby Waves, and Low-Frequency Waves, all of which are active in the region.
The transition from the rainy season to the dry season has not diminished the potential for further rainfall, highlighting the need for continuous vigilance. Local authorities and BNPB are working together to monitor the situation and ensure that aid reaches those in need during this challenging time.