RADAR BLITAR – Indonesia’s meteorology agency has warned that extreme weather will intensify across East Java from Feb. 21 to 28, with Blitar among the areas at risk. The alert highlights potential heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds that could trigger hydrometeorological disasters.

Forecaster Ferri Kusuma from BMKG Juanda said the province remains in peak rainy season. Several regions continue to see persistent downpours. He urged residents to prepare for moderate to heavy rain accompanied by lightning and gusty winds.

Blitar Regency and Blitar City appear on the risk list alongside Pacitan, Tulungagung, Malang, Lumajang, and Surabaya. Ferri said active Asian monsoon flow drives the pattern. Atmospheric waves such as the Madden–Julian Oscillation, low-frequency waves, and Rossby waves also strengthen storm development.

Warm sea surface temperatures in the Madura Strait add more moisture to the atmosphere. Unstable air then supports convective cloud growth. These factors raise the chance of intense rain, lightning, strong winds, and possible hail.

Authorities urged communities, especially in mountainous or steep terrain, to heighten vigilance. Heavy rain can trigger floods, flash floods, landslides, falling trees, and slick roads. Reduced visibility may also disrupt travel.

BMKG called on local governments and residents to strengthen preparedness and reduce disaster impacts during the extreme weather period.