Joko Mulyono, the Public Relations Officer of Baluran National Park, explained on Saturday (16/3/2024) that the closure in the national park aims to mitigate potential risks posed by natural disasters, as reported by antaranews.com He emphasized the hazards posed by fallen trees along various tourist routes, spanning from Batangan to Bekol and Bama Beach, especially during bouts of heavy rain and strong winds. In light of the extreme weather forecast issued by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), predicting unfavorable conditions until 18 March 2024, the park management will clear fallen branches along tourist routes. Joko said that sudden heavy rainfall, combined with strong winds, has softened the soil, increasing the risk of tree collapses. The park will resume operations if the weather permits; otherwise, reconsideration of the reopening will be warranted. (mg/inp/pr/nm)