Inp.polri.go.id - Ponorogo. Severe flash floods have disrupted key provincial routes connecting Trenggalek, Ponorogo, and Pacitan in East Java, following heavy rainfall from Sunday night into early Monday (15/12/2024).

Floodwaters rose to 1.5 meters, halting traffic and submerging public infrastructure, including schools. Many residents were forced to evacuate as their homes were inundated.

“This was caused by overflowing rivers unable to contain the high volume of rain,” explained Hadi Sunyoto, a member of Ponorogo’s Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), as quoted by antaranews.com.

The districts of Jetis, Siman, and Ponorogo were worst affected, with the neighborhoods of Kepatihan, Pekunden, and Brotonegaran experiencing the most damage.

Flooding began around 1am and rapidly spread, leaving major roads impassable and residential areas submerged under water up to 1.5 meters deep. Emergency teams are actively rescuing trapped residents and delivering essential supplies.

Authorities warn of continued risks, as the Meteorological Agency (BMKG) forecasts more heavy rain in the coming days. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepare for potential further flooding.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)