High waves threaten Indonesian waters, BMKG issues warning

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning for high waves, potentially reaching four meters, across several Indonesian waters between May 30 and June 2, 2026. The agency emphasizes the significant risks these conditions pose to maritime safety, especially for smaller vessels like fishing boats, barges, and ferries.

Eko Prasetyo, Director of Maritime Meteorology at BMKG, urged all sea transport operators, ship captains, and traditional fishermen to closely monitor weather forecasts and respect safe operational limits before setting sail. "The potential for high waves in these areas can pose a risk to the safety of voyages. Therefore, BMKG urges the public to remain vigilant, especially fishermen who are active with their mode of transportation," Prasetyo stated.

BMKG detailed specific risks for different vessel types. Fishing boats are considered at high risk if operating in wind speeds exceeding 15 knots with wave heights over 1.25 meters. Barges face potential disruption with wind speeds above 16 knots and waves over 1.5 meters. Ferry services are advised to be cautious if wind speeds approach 21 knots and wave heights reach 2.5 meters. Larger vessels, such as cargo ships and cruise ships, face increased risk when winds exceed 27 knots and wave heights surpass four meters.

The agency identified the northern waters of the North Natuna Sea, the northern part of the Malacca Strait, and the western Indian Ocean off Aceh as areas likely to experience waves between 2.5 and 4 meters, driven by wind speeds up to 25 knots. Moderate waves, ranging from 1.25 to 2.5 meters, are expected in other regions, including the southern Indian Ocean from Java to East Nusa Tenggara, the northern Makassar Strait, the Sulawesi Sea, the Banda Sea, and the Arafura Sea.

BMKG continues to advise all users of maritime transportation and coastal communities to stay updated on maritime weather information to anticipate and mitigate potential risks associated with high waves.

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The potential for high waves in these areas can pose a risk to the safety of voyages. Therefore, BMKG urges the public to remain vigilant, especially fishermen who are active with their mode of transportation.