Tropical Cyclone Formation 98B, BNPB Urges Vigilance Against Heavy Rain in Aceh and North Sumatra

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The Acting Head of the Data, Information, and Communication Center for Disaster Management at the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), Berton SP Panjaitan, has urged the regions of Aceh and North Sumatra to increase vigilance regarding the emergence of tropical cyclone formation 98B in the Bay of Bengal.

He stated that this tropical cyclone formation is expected to lead to heavy to very heavy rainfall.

"This phenomenon (cyclone formation) supports the growth of convective clouds that have the potential to produce heavy to very heavy rain, accompanied by local thunderstorms and strong winds during the day until night," he said in a press statement on Monday (26/10/2026).

Berton advised the public to be aware of the potential for flooding, flash floods, and landslides due to increased rainfall intensity.

"The public is also urged to secure items that can be easily carried by the wind and to avoid seeking shelter under trees or buildings that may be at risk," he remarked.

Additionally, coastal communities and fishermen are asked to monitor weather information and wave conditions before going to sea.

"Meanwhile, residents living in sloped and hilly areas are advised to heighten vigilance, particularly during prolonged or intense rainfall," he added.

Floods in Sumatra

As a point of reference, last year, flash floods struck the northern part of Sumatra in three provinces: Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra.

According to the latest report from Kompas.com, the death toll from the events that occurred in November 2025 reached 1,189, with 550 from Aceh, 375 from North Sumatra, and 231 from West Sumatra; the remaining 22 individuals are still being identified.

The disaster also resulted in 141 people missing and displaced 195,542 individuals.