The Saudi Embassy in Indonesia issued an urgent and important warning to all Saudi citizens, both residents and visitors, urging them to avoid travel to the Sitaro region in North Sulawesi province at this time. This warning comes in response to the severe weather conditions affecting the region, which have resulted in flash floods and torrential rains posing a threat to public safety.
The embassy explained in its statement that this alert is in line with decisions issued by the Indonesian local authorities, who officially declared a state of emergency in the Siau Tagulandang and Biaru Islands province (known as Sitaro). The authorities have set the state of emergency period from January 5 to January 18, 2026, to address the aftermath of natural disasters and facilitate relief and rescue operations in the affected areas.
Geographical and climatic context in Indonesia
Due to its tropical location, Indonesia is constantly exposed to extreme weather fluctuations, especially during the monsoon season, which typically peaks between December and February. North Sulawesi, with its rugged terrain and scattered islands, is particularly vulnerable to landslides and flash floods during heavy rainfall. These natural phenomena are part of the environmental challenges facing Southeast Asian countries, as heavy rains cause rivers to swell and the soil to become waterlogged, requiring constant vigilance from residents and visitors alike.
The importance of adhering to official instructions
Declaring a state of emergency by local authorities is a crucial administrative and legal procedure that allows the government to mobilize necessary resources and expedite disaster response. For travelers and tourists, heeding these warnings is not merely a routine matter, but a vital necessity for preserving lives. Flooding in island regions often leads to road closures, communication disruptions, and limited access to urgent medical services, making being in these areas during emergencies a significant and unpredictable risk.
Embassy guidelines and communication methods
The Saudi Embassy in Jakarta stressed the need for extreme caution and vigilance, urging citizens to stay away from areas where water accumulates, including floodplains and valleys. It also advised citizens to follow official weather forecasts and local media for the latest information. As part of its commitment to the safety of its citizens, the embassy affirmed its readiness to provide assistance in emergencies, encouraging citizens to immediately contact the Saudi Citizens Affairs Department via the designated emergency numbers should the need arise. The embassy wished everyone safety and well-being.
