TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Ternate's Meteorology Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said that the high waves in the waters of North Maluku has made it unsafe for small passenger boats to sail through. "Residents are advised to be extra careful when setting sail through the area," said a Ternate's BMKG meteorologist, Aryo, to Tempo on Monday, September 15, 2014.
According to BMKG's observations, the height of waves in the waters of North Maluku averages at around two to three meters. The high waves are especially prevalent around the northern parts of Halmahera, and around Sula Archipelago.
Other areas, including Ternate, Tidore, and the southern part of Halmahera, are considered relatively safe by BMKG, as the waters in that area are unaffected by the southerly winds in the region. "There are a number of spots where waves are quite significant, so the public still needs to remain cautious," said Aryo.
The search for victims that went missing when a longboat sank in Sanana, Sula Archipelago Regency, resumed on Monday, September 15, 2014. Local police has assigned more personnel to aid in the search-and rescue (SAR) operations of the victims.
According to Sula Archipelago District Police Chief, Police Adj. Sr. Comr. Hadi Waiyono, the ongoing SAR operation has involved at least 100 joint personnel - which consists of Police and Military personnels, SAR team, and local residents. At least four boats have been deployed to assist with the efforts. "However, we would have to suspend the SAR operation if the weather plays up again," said Hadi.
Apart from aiding the SAR operation, local police are also monitoring arrivals and departures at the harbour. This is done in light of the rough sea conditions on the waters surrounding Sula Archipelago.
On Sunday, a longboat en route from Mangoli Falabisahaya Island to Sanana Island capsized after it was hit by a three meter wave. Seven people are still missing and 14 people died in the incident.
Hadi confirmed that the incident was purely caused by adverse weather conditions, as the longboat was found to be in perfect working order prior to its' sinking, nor was it overloaded with cargo. "The longboat, which is 15 meters long, can carry between two to three tons of cargo," said Hadi.
BUDHY NURGIANTO