BMKG Warns of High Waves Across Several Indonesian Waters on February 17-20

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for potentially high waves across several Indonesian waters, effective from February 17 to 20, 2026. The alert focuses on conditions that could create hazardous conditions for maritime activities.

Wind Patterns and Wave Forecasts

According to BMKG forecaster Fitri Anggraeni, wind patterns across Indonesia during the period will generally move from the northwest to the northeast in the northern part of the country, and from the west to the northwest in the southern regions. Wind speeds are expected to range between 8 and 30 knots.

Areas at Risk

The highest wind speeds are anticipated in the northern Malacca Strait, the western Indian Ocean off West Sumatra extending south to East Nusa Tenggara, the northern Natuna Sea, the Sulawesi Sea, and the northern Pacific Ocean off northern Maluku to southwest Papua. These wind conditions are expected to generate waves reaching 1.25-2.5 meters in several key areas.

Specifically, these wave heights could occur in the northern Malacca Strait, the waters off Nias Island and Bengkulu, the northern Karimata Strait, the western Java Sea, the southern Makassar Strait, and portions of the Sulawesi, Arafura, and Pacific Oceans. Similar wave conditions are also possible in areas off Aceh, the Mentawai Islands, and throughout parts of Papua.

More significant waves, reaching 2.5-4.0 meters, are forecast for the western Indian Ocean off Lampung, the southern Indian Ocean off West Java, Yogyakarta, Bali, East Nusa Tenggara, and Maluku. This also includes areas off Banten, Central Java, East Java, and West Nusa Tenggara.

Did You Know? The BMKG issued this early warning on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, providing a four-day window for preparation, and vigilance.

Safety Recommendations

Fitri Anggraeni emphasized that the potential for high waves poses risks to maritime safety. The BMKG is urging increased vigilance, particularly for fishermen. Those using fishing boats should be wary of wind speeds exceeding 15 knots and wave heights above 1.25 meters.

Specific guidance has also been issued for larger vessels. Barge ships are advised to avoid conditions with wind speeds exceeding 16 knots and wave heights above 1.5 meters. Ferry ships should exercise caution when wind speeds surpass 21 knots and wave heights exceed 2.5 meters. Residents and workers in coastal areas are also encouraged to remain alert.

Expert Insight: The issuance of this early warning highlights the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with potentially hazardous sea conditions, particularly in a nation comprised of thousands of islands and reliant on maritime transport.

Potential Future Scenarios

If the forecasted wind patterns persist, maritime traffic in the affected areas could experience disruptions. Ferry and barge schedules may be altered or suspended as a precautionary measure. Further monitoring of the conditions by the BMKG could lead to updates or extensions of the warning period.

Frequently Asked Questions

What period does this warning cover?

The early warning is in effect from February 17 to 20, 2026.

What wave heights are expected in some areas?

Wave heights could reach 1.25-2.5 meters in several areas, and 2.5-4.0 meters in others.

Who is being urged to exercise caution?

Fishermen, barge ship operators, ferry ship operators, and residents/workers in coastal areas are all urged to be vigilant.

Given the potential impact on maritime activities, how will communities and industries best prepare for these forecasted conditions?