Surabaya Residents Battle Heavy Rains as Floods Hit Several Neighborhoods
Surabaya, Indonesia – A deluge of rain accompanied by strong winds has lashed Surabaya since around 3:30 PM WIB, causing floods in several areas. Residents are grappling with flash floods and rising waters in various parts of the city.
Flooding has been reported in numerous neighborhoods, including Jalan Kartini, Dukuh Pakis, Dukuh Kupang Timur, Girilaya, Gayungan, Ketintang, and Margorejo. The heavy rain, which has been pouring for nearly four hours, is the primary cause of these floods.
Surabaya Mayor Eri Cahyadi confirmed the presence of floods and puddles in several spots. He explained that several critical points, such as Gayungan, Ketintang, and Margorejo, are no longer able to accommodate the rainwater after over three hours, nearing four hours of continuous downpour.
The most severely affected area is Surabaya Selatan, where the rain has been heaviest and shows no signs of abating. "In Dharmawangsa, Srikana, the water levels have already started to rise. It’s being diverted into the main river, but it’s still not enough. The water level at Wonorejo has already reached 185 [cm]. It’s at its max capacity and can no longer hold more water," Eri noted.
Even the city’s rivers, including the prominent Sungai Jagir, are overflowing. "The water flow can’t enter the rivers. The Rolak area in Sungai Wonokromo is already full, and it can’t take in any more water because Jombang and Mojokerto have opened their floodgates, causing all the rivers to be filled to the brim. We’re all waiting for our turn to let the water into the main river, but we can’t because every river’s spillway is already filled," Eri revealed.
As the city grapples with the aftermath of the heavy rain, residents and authorities continue to assess the situation. Efforts are underway to mitigate the impact of the floods and ensure the safety of Surabaya’s residents.
(Source: esw/iwd)
