Flash flooding caused by the Mahakam river bursting its banks hit the East Kalimantan capital of Samarinda on Monday.

Floodwater inundated a number of the city's flood-prone areas such as Jalan Pemuda, Gelatik and Mayjen Sutoyo.

The city was also hit by flash flooding in February this year. On both occasions, the flash floods followed several days of incessant rain, causing the Mahakam river to overflow.

"It rained heavily early in the morning, causing water to rise to 85 centimeters. The water is above the wheels of my motorcycle," Ita, a resident of Jalan Pemuda, said.

Ita said the heavy rain started Friday. By Sunday the flooding had reached 30 centimeters in her residential area.

"The water started entering my house on Sunday. I was afraid it would get worse so I moved several items, like my TV set and mattresses, to safer locations," said Eko W., another resident of Jalan Pemuda.

Despite the fact the flooding resulted in no casualties, it did cause local residents to suffer financial losses and injuries. Eko said victims were unable to sleep due to fears the floods would submerge their houses and sweep away their belongings.

The flooding forced Padma, a housewife, to relocate the venue of her daughter's wedding ceremony from Jalan Mangga 2 to the much safer location of Muhajirin mosque.

In order to help facilitate the distribution of assistance to flood victims, Asmawati, head of Temindung Permai village, ordered the establishment of a command post.

Jalan Pemuda III and Gelatik were the worst-hit areas as they are located near the Karang Mumus river, which joins the Mahakam river.

Flooding has been a regular occurrence in Samarinda during the last 10 years.

©Jakarta Post