Ruptly
"Residents in Solo, Central Java, were met with an unusual sight after floodwaters turned a deep red following recent heavy rains. Footage from the area shows people wading through crimson-coloured water, while motorcycles and vehicles continue to move along partially submerged roads in flooded neighbourhoods. Local authorities said the striking colour was caused by clothing dye that had entered the floodwater. “So, this morning, April 17, 2026, we came here to check the floodgates… we noticed the water was red,” said Bambang, an employee of the local water department. “After investigating the area, we found plastic containing clothing dye… because there was a large amount and the concentration was quite thick, it caused the floodwater to turn a uniform red,” he added. Officials said the situation was linked to flooding in the Serengan area, where water levels rose after nearby rivers overflowed. Residents said the dye had been in the area for some time before the flooding occurred. “That dye has actually been there for a very long time… now that the flood has hit, the water has naturally turned red,” said local resident Rusid. Despite the unusual appearance, locals said there were no immediate signs of danger. “The children were playing in the water earlier… everything is fine,” Rusid added. Authorities said floodgates in the area had not been fully closed earlier in the day, contributing to water stagnation. They added that once water levels subside, the gates will be opened to allow drainage. Flooding is a recurring issue across Central Java, particularly during the peak rainy season between November and April, when monsoon rains regularly cause rivers to overflow in low-lying urban areas such as Solo. According to Indonesian disaster mitigation authorities, seasonal floods affect thousands of residents each year in the region."
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