Jakarta Launches OMC as a Shield against Heavy Rain

Jakarta’s Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is taking the bull by the horns by launching a Weather Modification Operation (OMC) to preempt potential hydrometeorological disasters. This proactive move aims to stay ahead of the curve as extreme weather threatens the capital and its surrounding areas.

This operation is a preemptive strike

The five-day operation, running from January 16 to 20, is a joint effort between BPBD, the Meteorology Agency (BMKG), and the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU).

Taking to the skies from Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in East Jakarta, a CASA 212 A-2105 aircraft is being deployed to salt the clouds and keep heavy downpours at bay.

Jakarta Govt Extends Weather Modification Operations Amid Flood Concerns

The weather modification operation hit the ground running on Friday (1/16) with two flight sorties deployed over the Sunda Strait. Crews dispersed a total of 1,600 kilograms of salt (NaCl) to nip the storm in the bud, forcing rain to fall over open waters before the clouds could reach the mainland.

The first run, conducted between 1:28 PM and 2:48 PM, saw 800 kilograms of salt seeded at altitudes of 8,000 to 12,000 feet. This tactical move is designed to defuse heavy rain clouds, ensuring that precipitation is offloaded at sea rather than over the city.

The second leg of the mission took to the skies from 3:40 PM to 5:30 PM, releasing another 800 kilograms of salt at an altitude of 9,000 feet.

Jakarta BPBD Head, Isnawa Adji, emphasized that the day’s focus was a preemptive strike over open waters—a strategic move to hold the line and neutralize rain clouds before they could make landfall and drench the capital.

"This operation is a preemptive strike to keep heavy downpours at bay and stop floods from paralyzing the city. Our every move is by the book, guided by real-time meteorological intel," he stated, Saturday (1/17).

He noted that the BPBD is working in lockstep with the BMKG and the Air Force, holding daily briefings to ensure their cloud-seeding is on the money and adapts to the shifting atmosphere.

"BPBD is urging residents to stay on their toes as heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds loom over the city. Everyone is encouraged to do their bit by keeping local drains clear of debris," Isnawa added.

To stay in the loop, real-time weather alerts and disaster updates are available via Jakarta Siaga 112, JAKI app, or @bpbddkijakarta—putting safety at your fingertips.