BLITAR – Extreme weather in Blitar caused widespread disruption after heavy rain and strong winds struck several areas of the regency on Wednesday afternoon, damaging dozens of homes and toppling trees across major roads.
The hydrometeorological disaster hit parts of Blitar Regency at around 5:30 p.m. local time. Authorities recorded impacts in four districts: Srengat, Nglegok, Udanawu, and Ponggok.
According to the local branch of the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), intense rainfall combined with powerful winds damaged rooftops and knocked down multiple trees in residential areas.
BPBD head Wahyudi said eight homes in Togogan village, Srengat District, suffered minor roof damage.
“In Togogan, Srengat District, eight houses experienced light damage, mainly on their roofs,” Wahyudi said.
Meanwhile, in Nglegok District, a fallen tree blocked Jiwut Road and struck nearby power lines. Another coconut tree collapsed onto a house in Kemloko village.
A resident identified as Sofiah, 53, sustained minor injuries to her head and legs after debris from the incident hit her.
In Udanawu District, strong winds damaged the kitchen roof of a home in Ringinanom village. However, the most severe impact occurred in Ponggok District.
Several houses in Karangbendo village and surrounding areas were hit by falling trees. In addition, a toppled tree also crushed a cattle shed.
A separate incident occurred in Sidorejo village when a large kapok tree fell onto Darusalam prayer hall. During the collapse, resident Edi Santosa suffered minor head injuries after roof tiles fell on him.
Besides damaging buildings, fallen trees blocked several roads in Ponggok District. Affected routes included Bacem village road, the road in front of SMPN 1 Ponggok, the eastern road near the Tiger Statue in Gentor hamlet, and the road near the Kaliganter tourism area.
Emergency teams responded quickly to the incidents. BPBD’s rapid response unit assessed the affected sites and removed tree debris from blocked roads.
“We conducted field assessments, cut fallen trees, and coordinated with related agencies,” Wahyudi explained.
Police officers, village officials, disaster volunteers, and local residents also joined the emergency response efforts.
By Wednesday evening, most blocked roads had reopened after crews cleared the debris. However, authorities still needed further cleanup at several locations because large branches and tree trunks remained on the roadside.
BPBD plans to continue the response operation on Thursday morning, starting at 6 a.m., with a focus on clearing remaining debris and collecting data on property damage.
Officials also urged residents to remain alert as extreme weather may continue during the seasonal transition.
“We ask the public to stay cautious, especially during heavy rain and strong winds. Residents should immediately report emergencies to local authorities,” Wahyudi said.