Jakarta. Torrential rain that lashed Jakarta on Thursday afternoon caused flooding across several parts of the capital, including the upscale Kemang Raya area in South Jakarta, disrupting traffic and daily activities for hours.

Floodwaters inundated major roads, leaving vehicles stranded and traffic paralyzed for several hours, according to the Jakarta Metropolitan Police Traffic Management Center.

Traffic from Prapanca Street heading toward Kemang was diverted to Pangeran Antasari Street, while vehicles from Blok M were redirected to continue straight toward Antasari. Police officers were deployed to manage the diversions and prevent severe congestion.

Officers were also seen blocking access to flooded roads, redirecting vehicles, and ensuring that no motorists attempted to drive through deep water.

By evening, floodwaters still covered much of Kemang Raya Street, prompting authorities to urge motorists, particularly private vehicle users, to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.

Dozens of Neighborhoods Affected
The Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) reported that 27 neighborhoods in South Jakarta were flooded, with water levels reaching up to 110 centimeters in some locations.

BPBD spokesperson Mohammad Yohan said the flooding began Thursday afternoon and spread across several subdistricts.

He attributed the flooding to the overflow of the Krukut and Mampang rivers, which burst their banks following prolonged heavy rainfall. The sharp rise in river levels overwhelmed surrounding drainage systems.

Rescue teams have been deployed to assist residents, while water pumps at several key points were activated to accelerate drainage efforts.

By nightfall, emergency crews were still working to reduce water levels and ensure that no casualties occurred as a result of the flooding.