High seas expected in Bengkulu, Nusa Tenggara, Papua.

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) issued a warning today for the maritime regions around Bengkulu province and the Indian Ocean west of Enggano Island, with waves up to 4 meters high and strong winds averaging between 12-20 knots anticipated over the next 12 hours.

“The strong northeasterly winds, rapid currents and high waves are expected to continue, and there is a real risk that similar conditions will be observed in Papuan waters,” BMKG Fatmawati-Soekarno Weather Observation Station analyst Suparwi said as quoted by Antara.

Despite the forecast for its maritime areas, clear skies with scattered clouds can be expected in the provincial capital of Bengkulu, with temperatures ranging between 23 and 32 degrees Celsius and humidity levels to fluctuating between 55 and 95 percent.

BMKG satellite imaging also shows storm clouds above Indonesia extending from Bengkulu’s maritime areas to the Lesser Sunda Islands.

Despite the warnings, many fishermen around the Baai Island in Bengkulu province have insisted on setting sail, as waves around the coast seemed normal to them.

“Waves up to 2.5 meters high are not extraordinary in these waters. I have instructed my crew to operate as usual, but I have also instructed them to keep the BMKG warning in mind when picking their routes.” said Robin, the owner of a local fishing company.