HARIANEXPRESS – South Sumatra’s BPBD recorded 101 disaster incidents, primarily floods and strong winds, between January and July 2026, with Ogan Ilir most affected, the agency stated Saturday (1/8/2026).
Of the total occurrences, both floods and strong winds accounted for 33 incidents each, underscoring persistent hydrometeorological threats in the region. Other incidents included 17 landslides, 12 residential fires, four flash floods, and two whirlwinds.
Iqbal Alisyahbana, Head of BPBD Sumsel, highlighted that the high number of incidents indicated the ongoing challenge posed by hydrometeorological disasters. He emphasized the critical need for increased readiness among local governments and communities to face extreme weather conditions.
“The data we have collected shows that hydrometeorological disasters still dominate in South Sumatra. Therefore, the readiness of local governments and communities must continue to be improved,” Iqbal stated.
He further added, “All district and city governments are asked to remain vigilant in facing potential disasters that can change according to weather conditions. BPBD continues to strengthen inter-agency coordination, update disaster information, and educate the public to be better prepared for various disaster risks.”
The series of disasters inflicted significant damage, particularly to residential areas and agricultural land. A total of 43,770 homes were submerged by floods, with 125 sustaining severe damage, 66 moderate damage, and 39 light damage.
Agricultural sectors also faced substantial losses, including 4,910 hectares of rice fields and 1,395 hectares of plantations damaged across various regions. Socially, 43,747 households were directly affected, and 607 households had to evacuate to safer locations.
BPBD confirmed that there were fatalities resulting from these events, though specific numbers were not detailed in the reports. Geographically, Ogan Ilir experienced the highest number of incidents with 19, followed by OKU Selatan with 12 occurrences.
Kota Lubuklinggau and Kabupaten Muara Enim each recorded 10 incidents, while Kota Prabumulih reported nine. Kabupaten OKU faced seven incidents, Banyuasin six, PALI five, while Musi Rawas and Kota Pagar Alam each had four. Kota Palembang, Lahat, and Empat Lawang each experienced three disaster events.
As the peak of the dry season approaches, BPBD anticipates a shift in potential disaster threats. Forest and land fires (karhutla), particularly in areas with peatlands, are now the primary concern, urging heightened vigilance from local governments.
