A tropical cyclone, named Iggy, is currently swirling in the waters south of West Java, approximately 600 kilometers southwest of Cilacap, Central Java, as of Thursday, January 1, 2026. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is monitoring the storm’s progress.
Cyclone Iggy’s Trajectory and Strength
BMKG analysis indicates that Tropical Cyclone Iggy is moving southeast-south at a speed of 8 knots, or 15 kilometers per hour. According to BMKG weather forecaster Hesti Heningtiyas, the cyclone is “moving away from Indonesian waters.”
Currently classified as a category 1 cyclone with a strength of 40 knots or 75 kilometers per hour, Iggy is expected to strengthen to a category 2 cyclone within the next 24 hours, reaching 55 knots or 100 kilometers per hour. BMKG predicts the cyclone will continue moving away from Indonesia, reaching approximately 740 kilometers south of Cilacap by Friday, January 2, 2026.
Potential Impacts on Indonesia
While moving away from the country, Tropical Cyclone Iggy is expected to indirectly impact Indonesian waters. BMKG forecasts moderate to heavy rainfall in Banten, Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, and Yogyakarta.
Wave heights are also expected to be affected. Moderate waves of 1.25-2.5 meters are anticipated in the waters of the western Indonesian Ocean towards Bengkulu. Higher waves, ranging from 2.5-4 meters, are expected towards Lampung, the southern Sunda Strait, and the waters south of Banten extending to East Java, Bali, and East Nusa Tenggara.
What Could Happen Next
If the cyclone continues on its current trajectory, it is likely to move further away from Indonesia. However, changes in wind patterns could alter its course. Should the cyclone maintain its strength or intensify further, the potential for increased wave heights and rainfall in coastal areas remains. It is possible that the cyclone’s influence could extend to other regions of Indonesia, though this is not currently predicted by BMKG.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current category of Tropical Cyclone Iggy?
Tropical Cyclone Iggy is currently classified as a category 1 cyclone, with a strength of 40 knots or 75 kilometers per hour.
Which regions of Indonesia are expected to experience rainfall?
Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected in the regions of Banten, Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, and Yogyakarta.
How fast is Tropical Cyclone Iggy moving?
The cyclone is moving southeast-south at a speed of 8 knots or 15 kilometers per hour.
Given the potential for changing conditions, what steps can individuals in affected coastal areas take to prepare for possible impacts from Tropical Cyclone Iggy?
