BPBD Records 5 Forest And Land Fires In 2 Regencies In Central Sulawesi As A Result Of El Nino

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) recorded five cases of forest and land fires (karhutla) in Central Sulawesi (Sulteng) as a result of the recent El Nino phenomenon. "Five forest and land fires occurred in the Banggai and Poso Regencies," said Head of Emergency and Logistics Division of Central Sulawesi BPBD Andy A Sembiring in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Thursday, September 7, which was confiscated by Antara. He explained that forest and land fires in Central Sulawesi occurred in Banggai, precisely in Toipian Village, Pagimana District, with a plantation area of residents affected by about 2.5 hectares.

Furthermore, forest and land fires hit 60 hectares of plantation land in Nuhon District, and 21.4 hectares in Poso Regency. Responding to this phenomenon, BPBD urges residents not to open plantation land by burning, because currently it is very vulnerable to fires as hot temperatures increase. "El Nino's threat is very risky to fires, so it is necessary to be aware that all parties anticipate the potential for fires," he said. He also asked BPBD support for each district/city to quickly provide information on potential forest fires, including making anticipatory efforts as a quick response. "El Nino phenomenon greatly affects natural conditions, cities as living beings in it must be wise in their activities," said Andi.

Head of BMKG Class II Meteorological Station Mutiara Sis Al-Jufri Palu Nur Alim added, according to his analysis, it is projected that around 85 percent of the Central Sulawesi region in September will experience drought. "The highest temperature at the peak of El Nino is around 36.0 degrees Celsius, and the normal temperature is around 32.6 degrees Celsius," he said. Therefore, the community is advised to reduce activities outside the home if it is not too important. In addition, saving using clean water and not burning garbage in any place. "Always maintain health and drink enough water to prevent dehydration. Local governments also need to take strategic steps to secure food," he said.