Aceh – Indonesia, The Aceh Tamiang Regency Government has proposed intensifying weather modification efforts to anticipate potential flooding caused by high rainfall, which is predicted to last until the end of 2026.
This measure is deemed urgent, given that river normalization cannot be implemented in the near future.
The proposal was presented by the Regent of Aceh Tamiang, Retired Police Inspector General Drs. Armia Pahmi, MH, during a follow-up meeting on the management and handling of river basin areas (DAS) with the Task Force for the Acceleration of Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra provinces via video conference on Friday (2/10/2026).
During the meeting, Armia suggested that the government consider leasing additional aircraft if the current fleet remains insufficient. The move is expected to expand the coverage of weather modification operations in the Aceh Tamiang region.
According to Armia, past experience with weather modification operations conducted by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) during previous hydrometeorological emergencies could serve as an evaluation base for determining future preventive measures.
“We see that river dredging and normalization cannot be carried out immediately. Therefore, weather modification is the most viable step we can take right now,” Armia stated.
In addition to proposing weather engineering, Armia requested the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) to provide regular and up-to-date weather reports. Timely information is crucial for local governments to implement preventive measures more swiftly based on evolving weather conditions and potential disaster threats.
Armia explained that the Aceh Tamiang Regency Government has formed a Disaster Preparedness Team and designated three out of 12 districts as priority flood monitoring areas. The local administration has also established several command posts equipped with logistical supplies in vulnerable locations.
“Infrastructure development such as river normalization takes a long time, while the rain continues to fall. Therefore, we must take swift action now,” he said.
These preparedness measures are a vital part of mitigating disaster risks amid the potential for heavy rainfall. On the other hand, inter-agency coordination and continuous weather monitoring are essential to ensure that preventive actions are measured and targeted effectively.
The Aceh Tamiang Regency Government hopes that relevant authorities will follow up on the weather modification proposal as a mitigation effort, while awaiting the implementation of river infrastructure management, which requires further planning and time. []