Jakarta, Nov. 28 -- The Indonesian government has launched weather modification operations to reduce rainfall in flood-affected areas of Sumatra and Aceh, while simultaneously sending logistical aid to victims.

"We are conducting weather modification operations. We will start deploying aircraft to reduce rainfall on land, allowing it to flow to the ocean," Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno said at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base on Friday.

He explained that the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) had earlier predicted Tropical Cyclone Senyar in Sumatra, which brought heavy rain and strong winds.

With the cyclone now subsided, Pratikno said the government can begin operations to diver...