West Java on High Alert: BNPB Issues Evacuation Orders Amid Heavy Rain Forecasts

JAKARTA — The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has declared a state of high alert in West Java due to forecasts of heavy rain, which could lead to flooding and landslides in several regions. The agency has instructed local governments to take immediate action, including evacuations if necessary, particularly in areas prone to such disasters.

The Acting Head of the BNPB's Data, Information, and Communication Center emphasized the need for vigilance as weather forecasts from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) predict significant rainfall starting Friday, November 13, 2026. Areas particularly at risk include Bandung, Cianjur, Kuningan, and Ciamis, which are expected to experience heavy downpours, while moderate rain is anticipated in Bogor, Garut, and Sukabumi.

The official said that when heavy rains begin, the potential for landslides and flooding in West Java is significant and urged all local governments and communities to remain alert.

This warning follows recent extreme weather events that have already caused damage in Sukabumi and Blitar, East Java, where dozens of homes were reported damaged due to high winds and heavy rainfall. In Sukabumi, 20 houses were damaged, while in Blitar, 14 houses and one business faced similar challenges.

“When heavy rains begin, the potential for landslides and flooding in West Java is significant, and all local governments and communities should remain alert.”Acting Head of BNPB's Data, Information, and Communication Center

In response to these incidents, BNPB has coordinated with local authorities to conduct rapid assessments and assist in clearing debris from fallen trees and damaged homes. The agency also reminded residents to heed early warning signs of disaster, such as rising river levels or visible ground cracks, and to follow evacuation orders from officials.

Furthermore, BNPB has outlined several preparedness measures for the rainy season, which includes cleaning drainage systems, normalizing rivers, and inspecting flood control infrastructure such as dams and levees. Local governments are also encouraged to repair damaged infrastructure and map out high-risk residential areas.

According to BNPB data, West Java experienced 223 natural disaster events in 2026, with flooding being the most frequent, affecting nearly 1.9 million people. These disasters resulted in 125 fatalities and 16 injuries. Significant property damage was also reported.