Jakarta. Thousands of fishermen in Lebak Regency, Banten, have been unable to go to sea in recent days due to high waves affecting the southern waters of Banten, particularly along the coastlines of Bayah, Wanasalam, Cilograng, and Panggarangan districts.

Local authorities said the bad weather affected 5,000 fishermen in the province.

This situation has resulted in significant economic losses. As of Tuesday, local fishermen remain reluctant to go out to sea due to waves reaching heights of 2.5 to 4.0 meters.

A fisherman from South Lebak, Wading, said fishing activities have been halted for almost a week. In fact, over the past few days, fishermen have completely ceased fishing for four consecutive days.

"Many fishermen are not going to sea due to extreme weather. A lot of fishing gear has collapsed or been destroyed. There are about 5,000 fishermen, spread from Cilograng to Binuangeun," Wading said.

He mentioned that at least 80 fishing tools were damaged or swept away by the waves, worsening the economic hardship for thousands of fishermen who rely on the sea for their livelihood.

"Fishing gear has collapsed and washed ashore. Most of it belongs to local residents. This has really hit our economy hard," he added.

Previously, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) issued an early warning regarding the potential for high waves. The warning applies from August 4 to 7, with waves expected to reach up to 6 meters.

BMKG has advised coastal communities, especially fishermen, to remain vigilant for safety.

Wind patterns in northern parts of Indonesia over the next three days are generally moving from southeast to south at speeds of 4–25 knots. In the southern regions, winds are mostly moving from southeast to southwest at speeds of 6–30 knots.

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