Indonesia Issues High-Wave Warning: Mariners Urged to Exercise Caution
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a notable warning for high waves affecting several Indonesian waters through December 17, 2024. the alert, issued on December 14, 2024, highlights the potential for waves reaching up to 4 meters (approximately 13 feet) in height.
The BMKG attributes the hazardous conditions to cyclone 93S,located in the Indian Ocean south of Java and moving southwest. This weather system is generating strong winds and significant wave action. The agency’s warning specifically mentions the potential for these extreme waves in the Indian Ocean west of Aceh-Lampung and south of Banten-Bali. “Likely to occur in the Indian Ocean west of Aceh-Lampung and the Indian Ocean south of Banten-Bali,” the warning stated.
Wind speeds are also a major concern. In northern Indonesia, winds are predicted to range from 8 to 30 knots, while southern regions will experience opposing winds. The strongest winds are expected in the indian Ocean west of Lampung to south of Banten, and also the Karimata Strait, Java Sea, southern makassar Strait, Sulawesi Sea, and Arafura Sea.
while the 4-meter waves pose the most significant threat, the BMKG also warns of 2.5-meter (approximately 8-foot) waves in other areas, including the northern Malacca Strait, North Natuna Sea, and parts of the Sunda Strait and Makassar Strait. Similar conditions are anticipated in the Indian Ocean south of Nusa Tenggara,and across several other Indonesian seas.
The BMKG emphasizes the serious risk to navigation safety. “The potential for high waves in several regions poses a risk to navigation safety,” the agency’s statement declared. Specific advisories are in place for various vessel types. Fishermen are advised to remain cautious with wind speeds exceeding 15 knots and waves over 1.25 meters. Barges should heed warnings for winds above 16 knots and waves taller than 1.5 meters. Ferry boats should exercise caution with winds over 21 knots and waves exceeding 2.5 meters, while larger vessels like cargo ships and cruise ships should be aware of winds above 27 knots and waves over 4 meters.
This warning underscores the importance of maritime safety and preparedness, especially for those operating in the affected regions. The BMKG’s timely alert allows mariners to take necessary precautions and mitigate potential risks associated with these hazardous sea conditions.
Interview: Understanding Indonesia’s High Wave Warning
Senior Editor: Welcome back to World Today News. Today we’re discussing the recent high wave warning issued by Indonesia’s BMKG and what it means for mariners in the region. We’re joined by Dr. I Made Karta,a renowned oceanographer and expert on Southeast Asian maritime conditions. Welcome, Dr. Karta.
Dr. I Made Karta: Happy to be here.
senior Editor: Dr. Karta, the BMKG’s warning indicates waves could reach up to 4 meters in some areas. Can you explain the meteorological factors causing these high waves?
Dr. I Made Karta: This situation is largely driven by cyclone 93S, currently located in the Indian Ocean, south of Java. cyclones are powerful weather systems characterized by low pressure and strong winds, which generate significant wave activity. As Cyclone 93S moves southwest, it’s pushing these high swells towards Indonesian waters.
Senior Editor: The warning specifies certain areas like the Indian Ocean west of Aceh-Lampung and south of Banten-Bali as being particularly vulnerable. Are geographical factors amplifying the impact of the cyclone in these regions?
Dr. I made Karta: Yes, the topography of these regions plays a role. The bathymetry, or underwater landscape, can influence wave height and direction. for example, shallow waters near coasts or underwater ridges can cause waves to become steeper and higher.
Senior Editor:
We your article mentioned strong winds impacting Indonesia. Can you elaborate on the interplay between wind and waves?
Dr. I Made Karta: Wind is the primary driver of wave formation. The stronger the wind, the larger the fetch (the distance over which the wind blows uninterrupted) and the longer the duration of the wind, the
bigger the waves will grow. The BMKG’s warning about wind gusts exceeding 30 knots in Northern Indonesia further underscores the severity of the situation.
senior Editor: The BMKG has issued specific advisories for various types of vessels. What are the key risks these different vessels face in these conditions?
Dr. I Made Karta:
Smaller vessels like fishing boats are particularly vulnerable to capsizing in strong winds and high waves, hence the warnings related to wind speeds exceeding 15 knots and wave height of over 1.25 meters. Larger vessels like cargo ships and cruise ships have a lower risk of capsizing, but they can experience difficulty maintaining course and stability in rough seas.
Senior Editor: This situation underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared. what are the key takeaways for mariners operating in Indonesian waters during this high wave warning period?
dr. I Made Karta: Vigilance and constant monitoring of weather forecasts are crucial. Mariners should closely follow the BMKG’s warnings, heed the specific advisories for their vessel type, and adjust their itinerary or seek safe harbor if necessary. Remember, safety should always come first.
Senior Editor:
Dr. Karta, thank you for sharing your expertise and for shedding light on this critically important maritime safety issue.
Dr. I Made Karta: My pleasure. Be safe out there.
