OKU TIMUR â The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of OKU Timur Regency has declared a flood alert status as the region enters the rainy season with significant rainfall intensity. Alongside floods, BPBD has also reminded residents to remain cautious about potential landslides in areas near river basins.
The Head of BPBD OKU Timur, MGS Habibullah, through the Head of Emergency and Logistics Division, Budi Widiyanto, urged residents living in disaster-prone areas to prepare for any eventuality.
“The flood alert status aims to encourage residents, especially those near river basins, to be ready. An alert status differs from an emergency response, which indicates a disaster has occurred. We hope everyone remains vigilant,” he stated on Monday (December 9, 2024).
Prevention and Disaster Mitigation Measures
To cope with the rainy season, BPBD has advised residents to:
- Store valuable items in a safe place, above flood levels.
- Clear water drainage systems in their neighborhoods to prevent blockages.
- Stay updated on weather information and familiarize themselves with evacuation routes nearby.
BPBD also recommends residents prepare a Disaster Emergency Kit (DEK) containing essential documents, medicines, and other emergency necessities.
Flood-Prone Areas in OKU Timur
Several sub-districts in OKU Timur Regency are categorized as flood-prone, including:
- Bunga Mayang Sub-district
- Martapura Sub-district
- BP Bangsa Raja Sub-district
- Madang Suku 1 and 2 Sub-districts
- Cempaka Sub-district
- Semendawai Suku III Sub-district
- Semendawai Barat Sub-district
- Belitang Sub-district
Cempaka Sub-district is particularly vulnerable, as most villages are prone to flooding due to its lower terrain compared to other areas.
Safety Tips During and After Floods
Budi Widiyanto also shared some precautions during floods:
- Turn off electricity and gas, and unplug all electrical devices.
- Evacuate to higher ground with your family.
- Wear protective footwear and gloves when navigating flooded areas to avoid injuries from sharp objects.
After the flood, residents are advised to inspect their homes, ensure the safety of electricity and gas systems, and remain cautious of dangerous animals that may have entered their premises.
Preparedness and Cross-Agency Coordination
BPBD OKU Timur has prepared a rubber boat for evacuation efforts. In the event of a large-scale disaster, BPBD will coordinate with Basarnas, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and the Police.
“We continue to monitor the situation and are ready to respond at any time. Disasters can happen unexpectedly, so everyone must remain prepared,” Budi emphasized.
With these preventive and mitigation measures, OKU Timur residents are expected to be better equipped to face disaster risks during this rainy season.