“This phenomenon is similar to the Bahorok wind phenomenon in North Sumatra; Angin Barudu in Sulawesi; Gending Wind in Probolinggo; Angin Kumbang in Cirebon; Brubu Wind in Makassar; and Wabraw Wind in Biak. “The naming of Angin Geurutee itself is based on the name of the location where this phenomenon occurs,” continued Yopi.
Based on data from the last twenty years, said Yopi, this phenomenon has a very significant impact on drought and crop damage in the Aceh Besar and Banda Aceh areas, and wet air masses which can cause flooding in the Aceh Jaya area. Therefore, BMKG coordinated with scientists at FMIPA USK to carry out more detailed observations of this phenomenon.
Prior to this declaration, a coordination meeting and hearing between BMKG and FMIPA USK was held, followed by a virtual Focus Group Discussion (FGD). After going through observations and analysis of available data, the two institutions agreed to declare this phenomenon, so that the public can properly understand this phenomenon and its impacts, especially people who live in the affected locations, namely Banda Aceh, Aceh Besar and Aceh Jaya.
Budi Hutasoit, BMKG forecaster, said that based on observations in several cases in Aceh Besar and Pidie, these strong gusts of wind can also knock down trees and their roots and lay down rice plants. Other impacts include dehydration, plant pests and diseases such as coughing, diarrhea, vomiting and dull skin.
“Cases of epidemic diseases such as malaria and dengue fever increase as surface temperatures warm. “Therefore, the planting period for rice, corn and so on must be adjusted to this natural phenomenon, so as to produce better harvests,” continued Budi.
The Chancellor of USK, Samsul Rizal, in his speech appreciated the foresight of the BMKG researchers and the USK FMIPA researchers who worked together to observe the Geureutee Wind phenomenon. Samsul emphasized that whatever phenomena are permitted by Allah SWT, must be beneficial for humans, and cannot be in vain.
“USK is ready to synergize with any agency that wishes to study various natural phenomena, for the benefit of humans and the environment,” concluded Samsul.
Meanwhile, BMKG Deputy for Meteorology, Guswanto, hopes that through this activity, BMKG will want to reach out to stakeholders who use BMKG information, so that they are more familiar with utilizing the information products issued by BMKG. Apart from that, BMKG wants to provide brief outreach to stakeholders and the community in the Aceh region, especially areas affected by Angin Geurutee activities. (i’m)
