BMKG Warns Residents to Be Aware of High Wave Heights in North Sulawesi

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning for residents in the island region of North Sulawesi (Sulut) to remain vigilant regarding high wave conditions.

According to Ricky D. Aror, Coordinator of Observation and Information at the BMKG Maritime Meteorology Station in Bitung, residents should be cautious of wave heights reaching between 1.25 to 2.5 meters in the waters north and east of the Talaud Islands and in the northern waters of the Sangihe Islands.

He noted that generally, winds are blowing from the south-west at speeds of 9 to 24 knots, with the highest wind speeds recorded near the Talaud Islands. The combination of high wind speeds and duration can lead to increased wave heights in the area.

BMKG has issued a forecast indicating that these wave heights are expected to persist until Monday, October 21, 2024. The agency advises residents, particularly fishermen, to be aware of the risks associated with high waves during navigation.

For specific guidance:

• Fishing boats should monitor for wind speeds exceeding 15 knots and wave heights above 1.25 meters.
• Tugboats need to be cautious with winds over 16 knots and waves above 1.5 meters.
• Ferries should be aware of wind speeds exceeding 21 knots and waves over 2.5 meters.
• Larger vessels, such as cargo ships and cruise liners, should remain alert for wind speeds exceeding 27 knots and wave heights above 4.0 meters.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather conditions and exercise caution while at sea.

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning for residents in North Sulawesi (Sulut) regarding potentially dangerous wave conditions in the region.

Ricky D. Aror, Coordinator of Observation and Information at the BMKG Maritime Meteorology Station in Bitung, stated that wave heights could reach between 1.25 and 2.5 meters in waters north and east of the Talaud Islands, as well as in northern waters near the Sangihe Islands.

This warning is based on observations indicating that winds are generally blowing from the south-west at speeds ranging from 9 to 24 knots, with the highest wind speeds noted in the Talaud region. The combination of high wind speeds and duration can significantly increase wave heights, posing risks to maritime activities.

BMKG’s warning remains in effect until Monday, October 21, 2024. Residents, particularly those involved in fishing and maritime activities, are advised to take necessary precautions.

Key recommendations include:

• For Fishing Boats: Monitor wind speeds over 15 knots and wave heights above 1.25 meters.
• For Tugboats: Stay alert for wind speeds exceeding 16 knots and waves higher than 1.5 meters.
• For Ferries: Be cautious of wind speeds over 21 knots and wave heights above 2.5 meters.
• For Large Vessels (Cargo Ships and Cruise Liners): Pay attention to wind speeds over 27 knots and wave heights exceeding 4.0 meters.

The BMKG encourages all residents to stay informed about weather conditions and to exercise extreme caution when navigating these waters.