Aceh Declares Emergency Status Amid Flooding and Extreme Weather Forecasts

Governor Muzakir Manaf of Aceh has officially declared a state of emergency due to severe flooding affecting various districts in the province. This emergency status, which began on November 11, 2026, and will last until January 31, 2027, aims to enhance preparedness and response to the increasing likelihood of hydrometeorological disasters, following predictions of heavy rainfall in the coming months.

According to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), the flooding has already displaced many residents across several areas, including Pidie Jaya, Bireuen, Gayo Lues, and Aceh Barat Daya. In Bireuen, rising river levels, exacerbated by high rainfall upstream and tidal influences from the sea, have led to significant water overflow, inundating nearby communities.

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that Aceh is currently experiencing its peak rainy season, with forecasts indicating that this will continue through December 2026. BMKG meteorologist Faqih Musyaffa noted that the region has been under the influence of atmospheric dynamics that enhance rainfall, including Kelvin and Rossby wave activities. He advised residents to remain vigilant against potential flooding, landslides, and other weather-related hazards.

“We urge the community to be aware of the risks associated with prolonged heavy rainfall.”Faqih Musyaffa, BMKG Meteorologist

“We urge the community to be aware of the risks associated with prolonged heavy rainfall,” Faqih stated. “The conditions are conducive to the formation of rain clouds, which may lead to severe weather events.”

In response to the emergency declaration, Governor Manaf has called for all relevant local agencies to strengthen coordination and readiness, ensuring that personnel and equipment are available for immediate deployment. He emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring of weather conditions and rapid reporting and response to any incidents of flooding.

“Monitoring must be conducted 24/7, and any disaster events should be reported and managed promptly.”Muzakir Manaf, Governor of Aceh

“Monitoring must be conducted 24/7, and any disaster events should be reported and managed promptly and in an organized manner,” Manaf said. He has directed various agencies, including the Aceh Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBA) and the Social Services Department, to ensure readiness in dealing with the ongoing situation.

As the rainy season progresses, BMKG has highlighted the potential for extreme weather events, advising communities to prepare for possible evacuations and to stay informed through official channels. The agency has also warned against trusting unofficial weather reports, urging the public to rely on their updates for accurate information.

The situation in Aceh reflects broader challenges faced by Indonesia, which frequently experiences severe weather events due to its geographical location. The government’s proactive measures aim to mitigate the impact of these natural disasters on vulnerable communities.