Indonesia’s West Java: Forest, land fires burn 237 hectares
Forest and land fires in Indonesia's West Java province have burned over 237 hectares, exacerbated by a prolonged dry season and El Niño conditions. The smoke has caused significant air quality issues, leading to the death of an orangutan and prompting safety warnings in neighboring regions.
Why it matters
Wildfires in Indonesia have significant regional environmental and health impacts, including transboundary haze and threats to biodiversity.
ISTANBUL – Forest and land fires in Indonesia’s West Java province have burned at least 237 hectares as of Thursday, local media reported.
The highest number of fires was recorded in Sumedang Regency, with 22 incidents, broadcaster Kompas reported.
According to the West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency, there were 168 fire incidents.
READ: EMB-7 tells public to take safety measures as Indonesia haze reaches Cebu
The fires affected 186 subdistricts across 21 districts and cities, but no residents were injured.
Indonesia faces an unusually prolonged dry season, with El Niño contributing to conditions favorable for wildfires.
Nearly 95,000 hectares burned in July alone, while the Forestry Ministry estimated that about 202,000 hectares had burned nationwide by the end of July.
READ: Forest fires in Indonesia bring haze to Metro Cebu
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