BANDUNG - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) predicts that around 66 percent of West Java will experience a dry season faster than normal conditions in 2026.
Praktirawan of the West Java Meteorology Station, Vivi Indhira, said the early signs of drought had begun to be seen since April, especially in the central Karawang area, central Subang, and part of Indramayu.
"As much as 56 percent of West Java is predicted to enter the dry season in May 2026," said Vivi, quoted by Antara, Wednesday, April 15.
Meanwhile, other areas such as most of Bogor Regency, northern Sukabumi, central Cianjur, to Bandung City are expected to follow in June 2026.
Overall, BMKG recorded 66 percent of areas experiencing drought faster, about 25 percent according to normal patterns, and the other 7 percent were actually slower.
Not only earlier, this year's dry season is also predicted to be drier. Around 93 percent of West Java is expected to experience below normal rainfall during the dry season.
The peak of the drought is expected to occur in August in around 90 percent of the area, while a small portion of the other areas reaches its peak in July and September. The duration of this year's drought is also predicted to be longer.
BMKG urges local governments and the public to increase their preparedness for potential drought, including by optimizing water resources management and saving water use.
In the agricultural sector, farmers are asked to adjust the planting calendar and use varieties that are more resistant to dry conditions.
In addition, BMKG also reminds of the potential increase in the risk of forest and land fires during the dry season, so that early anticipation measures are needed.
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