RADAR TRENGGALEK – Flooding on the Trenggalek-Pacitan highway disrupted traffic in Panggul district on Wednesday (Feb. 18) afternoon after intense rainfall hit the region. Water inundated the national road section in Wonocoyo village and blocked traffic in both directions. Consequently, vehicles slowed sharply and some drivers turned back.

According to the Trenggalek disaster mitigation agency chief, St. Triadi Atmono, water depth reached about 30-40 centimeters, or roughly knee height for adults. As a result, the Trenggalek–Pacitan route became temporarily impassable for many vehicles.

“The national road in Wonocoyo village was flooded to a depth of around 30 to 40 centimeters, disrupting Trenggalek-Pacitan traffic,” he said.

Triadi explained that extreme rainfall sharply increased river discharge near the site. The river could not contain the runoff and overflowed onto nearby settlements and the highway.

“Rainfall intensity at the location was high. The river could not hold the runoff, so it overflowed onto the road and surrounding area,” he added.

However, officials confirmed floodwater had not entered residential homes. Instead, the inundation mainly affected transport access along the national corridor.

“Floodwater has not entered houses, but it severely disrupts the Trenggalek-Pacitan main route,” Triadi said.

Therefore, motorists from both Trenggalek and Pacitan directions diverted through Gayam village in Panggul district to avoid the flooded section. Traffic flow shifted to this alternate route while water covered the highway.

BPBD Trenggalek and joint officers deployed to the site for emergency handling and monitoring. Teams conducted assessments to track water levels and anticipate further impacts if heavy rain continues. Authorities urged road users to remain cautious and consider alternate routes during ongoing extreme weather.