PORTALJABAR, BOGOR REGENCY - Acting Governor of West Java Bey Machmudin inspected the location devastated by the tornado natural disaster in Cimayang Village, Pamijahan District, Bogor Regency, Tuesday ( 3/9/2024 ).
The incident, which resulted in two fatalities and four other residents being injured by the collapsed building, occurred on Monday ( 2/9/2024 ) afternoon.
Bey, who was accompanied by Acting Bogor Regent Suryanto Putra during his inspection, expressed his deep condolences to the victims who were residents of Blitar, East Java. Currently, all victims, both dead and injured, have been taken to Blitar.
"I, together with the Acting Regent of Bogor, reviewed the impact of the extreme rain that occurred yesterday afternoon. We express our condolences for the two victims who died and four people who were injured. Because they came from Blitar, the deceased and the four people have also been taken to Blitar," said Bey when interviewed by media crew.
Due to this incident, Bey asked the public to remain alert to heavy rain even though it is currently entering the dry season. In certain areas, including Bogor Regency, high intensity rain can occur at any time.
"The point is, even though we are entering the dry season, it does not mean there is no rain. In certain areas, extreme rain can even occur and we must be careful," he reminded.
Currently, the Acting Regent of Bogor has declared an emergency response. Houses affected by yesterday's natural disaster are being assessed.
Bey said, now the most important thing is the safety of residents.
"For damaged houses, the Regent will determine an emergency response, but for damaged houses, they must be assessed first, then we will see how damaged it is," said Bey.
He also asked developers not to build houses carelessly, but to build them solidly.
Moreover, Bey continued, the disaster that struck last Monday was only due to rain that did not last too long, but the impact was very big.
"We told the developers to build something sturdy, don't let a tornado have fatal consequences. Even though it only rained for a short time," he said.
Apart from Bogor Regency, other areas in West Java are also prone to natural disasters, such as floods and landslides that can occur during the dry season.
"Yesterday we held a meeting on drought, but it rained. That means even though we are entering the dry season, we must remain careful, especially since West Java is a disaster-prone area. So community vigilance and preparedness are very necessary," said Bey.