Extreme Weather Makes the Southern Region of West Java Most Prone to Hydrometeorological Disasters

BANDUNG, KOMPAS— The West Java Disaster Management Agency reminds the public to be vigilant about the potential for hydrometeorological disasters in the southern region of West Java. Based on the mapping of incident occurrences, the vulnerability level in this area is highest during extreme weather conditions.

The Young Public Relations Expert of the West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Hadi Rahmat Hardjasasmita, in Bandung, Wednesday (5/11/2025), explained that most disaster-prone areas are located in the southern regions such as Sukabumi, Cianjur, Tasikmalaya, and Garut. In addition, Bogor Regency is also included among the areas with a high level of vulnerability.

According to data from the West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) from November 1 to 5, there have been 30 incidents of natural disasters. A total of 6,658 residents have been affected, and 172 housing units have been damaged.

The intensity of disasters in several regions during that period included 5 natural disaster events in Bogor and 3 disaster events in Sukabumi. The disasters comprised landslides, whirlwinds, and floods.

"The regions in the south have complex geographical conditions with many hills, making the potential for landslides and flash floods quite significant," said Hadi.

He stated that the West Java BPBD also noted that the potential for flash floods still frequently arises in southern regions such as Sukabumi, Cianjur, and Garut, in line with high rainfall and vulnerable hilly conditions.

The regions in the south have a complex geographical condition with many hills, resulting in a significant potential for landslides and flash floods.

In the northern region of West Java, Hadi continued, it is relatively safer from landslides due to the dominance of lowland areas. However, the potential for flooding and inundation still needs to be monitored, especially in the Bandung Raya area.

"For the northern region, the potential disaster is more related to flooding. Usually, the inundation does not last too long, but drainage issues remain a major challenge," said Hadi.

Meanwhile, the West Java Provincial Government, in collaboration with the West Java Regional Police, held a Disaster Response Forces Readiness Parade for the year 2025 in the courtyard of Gedung Sate, the West Java Governor's Office, this Wednesday. The event aims to enhance preparedness in facing potential disasters in West Java during the rainy season.

The West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Setiawan stated that this preparedness rally is important to conduct considering the increasing frequency of disasters in West Java. From January to early November 2025, there have been recorded more than 1,500 disaster incidents across 27 regencies and cities.

"Data in West Java has recorded 30 incidents in November. Therefore, we need to take this seriously and ensure the readiness of all parties in West Java to assist the affected residents," said Rudi.

He emphasized that the West Java Police are deploying approximately 2,500 personnel from the National Police, the Military, the Regional Disaster Management Agency, volunteers, and various government agencies. In addition to handling before and during disasters, the readiness of personnel also includes post-disaster recovery, including trauma healing services.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi emphasized that the preparedness rally serves as a moment for evaluation to address various shortcomings in disaster management on the ground, particularly in terms of accessibility and logistical support.

"Usually, during a disaster, roads and infrastructure are damaged, making transportation access difficult. Therefore, I have requested that ambulances and special heavy-duty vehicles equipped with medical supplies be prepared to reach remote areas," said Dedi.