jpnn.com, JAKARTA - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has urged residents of Central Java, the Special Region of Yogyakarta, and parts of West Java to be vigilant.
The Agency predicted the potential for high waves that could reach a height of 4 to 6 meters.
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Head of the BMKG technician group at the Tunggul Wulung Meteorological Station in Cilacap, Central Java, Teguh Wardoyo, said on Saturday (23/10) that people who lived and worked on the coastside around the areas prone to high waves must be vigilant for the next three days.
According to Teguh, the potential increase in wave height is caused by wind patterns in the southern part of Indonesia, which are dominantly moving from east to southeast, with wind speeds ranging from 8 to 20 knots.
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The BMKG said the pattern of wind movement that tends to be in the same direction and in high speed triggers an increase in wave height.
"Therefore, we issued an early warning of high waves that takes effect from Saturday at 7 a.m. until Monday at 7 a.m.," Teguh added.
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Teguh appealed to marine service users to pay attention to the risk of high waves on shipping safety.
He also asked traditional fishermen who used small boats to always be alert.
In addition, barge operators were advised to be aware of strong wind of more than 16 knots and waves above 1.5 meters.
Ferries were also asked to be aware of strong wind of more than 21 knots and waves above 2.5 meters, while large ships such as cargo and cruise ships were advised to be aware of strong wind of more than 27 knots and waves above 4 meters.
"For tourists who visit the beach, especially in coastal areas that are directly connected to the high seas, they are advised not to swim or bathe there because high waves can occur at any time," Teguh said. (between/mcr20/jpnn)