BMKG Records 2,015 Hotspots In West Kalimantan In Early September 2024

Illustration of forest and land fires (karhutla). (Unsplash-John Towner)

JAKARTA - Supadio Class I Meteorological Station in West Kalimantan (West Kalimantan) revealed that West Kalimantan has experienced an increase in the number of hotspots since early September 2024. As of September 2, 2,015 hotspots have been observed in several areas in the province.

"West Kalimantan is facing a significant increase in the number of hotspots detected, with the potential for forest and land fires (karhutla) being the main concern," said the Coordinator for Data and Information at the Supadio Class I Meteorological Station, Sutikno in Pontianak, Tuesday, September 3, as reported by Antara.

According to him, on September 1, 2024, there were around 1,900 hotspots detected in West Kalimantan. This figure jumped to more than 2,000 hotspots on September 2.

This hot spot was detected with high levels of accuracy, especially in several districts such as Kapuas Hulu, Sintang, Melawi, Sanggau, Sekadau, and Landak. "This increase in hot spots is very significant, especially in the Landak area and its surroundings which must be watched out for," he said.

This increase in hotspots indicates a high potential for forest and land fires. Based on predictions, the potential for fires will remain high until September 7. Although it is estimated that there will be light rain from September 7 to 8, which is expected to reduce the number of hotspots, the situation still requires vigilance.

"After September 7 and 8, despite the potential for rain, we estimate that there will be another increase in hot spots," said Sutikno.

The latest data shows that on September 2, 2024, there were 2,015 hotspots, the most detected in the Sanggau area, followed by Sintang, Melawi, and Kapuas Hulu. "Karhutla is a serious threat, especially in areas that show high concentration of hotspots," he said.

Sutikno also informed that it is possible that consistent rain will only occur after September 20, 2024.

"Consistent rains may only occur after mid-September, so we must remain vigilant against potential fires during this period," he said.

To reduce the risk of fires, Sutikno appealed to the public and authorities to increase efforts to monitor and control forest and land fires.

"Collaboration between the government, the community, and related parties is very important to prevent fires and protect the environment and public health," said Sutikno.