Medan, MINA – Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) Region I Medan has issued an early warning over the rising threat of forest and land fires following the detection of 33 hotspots across several districts in North Sumatra.
The increase comes as the region enters the dry season, which has led to drier land conditions that are more prone to burning.
According to monitoring data from the MODIS sensor via the Terra, Aqua, and SNPP satellites, the hotspots are predominantly concentrated in the western coastal areas and several highland regions.
Labuhanbatu regency recorded the highest number of hotspots, followed by South Tapanuli and Mandailing Natal. The situation calls for full preparedness from both local authorities and communities to prevent haze disasters that could harm public health and the environment.
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A forecaster at BMKG Region I Medan said air temperatures across much of North Sumatra have begun to rise, ranging between 32 and 34 degrees Celsius. Low rainfall over the past week has significantly reduced soil moisture levels.
The phenomenon is part of an annual cycle that must be anticipated with measured mitigation efforts to prevent it from escalating into large-scale fires that are difficult to control.
In response to the situation, authorities have urged residents, particularly farmers and plantation operators, not to clear land by burning.
Traditional slash-and-burn practices during extreme weather conditions not only violate the law but also endanger lives and disrupt broader economic activities. Coordination among the Indonesian military, police, and the Manggala Agni forest fire task force is being strengthened on the ground.
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In addition to the threat of forest and land fires, the dry season in North Sumatra may also affect the availability of clean water for daily needs and agricultural irrigation. Environmental experts advise the public to conserve water and protect natural water sources from contamination.
Strengthening community-based disaster literacy is key to enabling residents to take early action if they detect smoke in nearby forest areas.
Satellite monitoring will continue around the clock to provide real-time information to the forest fire task force. The public is encouraged to stay updated through official BMKG channels and to promptly report any fire incidents to the relevant authorities.[]
Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)
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