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- Asep Haryono | Extreme Heat Hits Kalimantan: More Than 10 Days Without Rain - Powered by Blogger
Disclaimer
I would like to say that the information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only. Weather conditions in Indonesia, especially in my area in West Kalimantan may change at any time and can vary between regions in all provinces in Indonesia. This article is based on publicly available information and official statements from BMKG at the time of writing as factual support documentations.
Readers especially Indonesians are advised to always refer to official updates and warnings from BMKG or local authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date weather information.
In the past week, many people in Kalimantan, includes in my area West Kalimantan, have been feeling unusually hot weather. Even though Indonesia in general is still in the rainy season, several areas in Kalimantan, that includes me in West Kalimantan, have experienced extreme heat, with daytime temperatures reaching 34 to 35 degrees Celsius. This condition has raised concerns among residents and authorities, especially because rain has been absent for more than 10 days in some regions.
According to data from BMKG (Badan Meteorologi, Klimatologi, dan Geofisika), this situation is not normal for the current season. Normally, Kalimantan receives frequent rainfall during this period, helping to keep temperatures lower and humidity balanced. However, recent weather patterns show a different picture.
More Than 10 Days Without Rain BMKG records show that several parts of Kalimantan have gone over 10 consecutive days without rain. This long dry period has caused the land surface to heat up more than usual. When the ground becomes dry, it absorbs and releases heat more quickly, making the air temperature feel even hotter during the day.
Many residents have reported feeling exhausted more easily, especially those who work outdoors. Farmers, construction workers, and street vendors are among the most affected, as they are exposed to direct sunlight for long hours. Even during the night, the air in some areas still feels warm, making it difficult for people to rest comfortably.
I would like to say that the information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only. Weather conditions in Indonesia, especially in my area in West Kalimantan may change at any time and can vary between regions in all provinces in Indonesia. This article is based on publicly available information and official statements from BMKG at the time of writing as factual support documentations.
Readers especially Indonesians are advised to always refer to official updates and warnings from BMKG or local authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date weather information.
In the past week, many people in Kalimantan, includes in my area West Kalimantan, have been feeling unusually hot weather. Even though Indonesia in general is still in the rainy season, several areas in Kalimantan, that includes me in West Kalimantan, have experienced extreme heat, with daytime temperatures reaching 34 to 35 degrees Celsius. This condition has raised concerns among residents and authorities, especially because rain has been absent for more than 10 days in some regions.
According to data from BMKG (Badan Meteorologi, Klimatologi, dan Geofisika), this situation is not normal for the current season. Normally, Kalimantan receives frequent rainfall during this period, helping to keep temperatures lower and humidity balanced. However, recent weather patterns show a different picture.
More Than 10 Days Without Rain BMKG records show that several parts of Kalimantan have gone over 10 consecutive days without rain. This long dry period has caused the land surface to heat up more than usual. When the ground becomes dry, it absorbs and releases heat more quickly, making the air temperature feel even hotter during the day.
Many residents have reported feeling exhausted more easily, especially those who work outdoors. Farmers, construction workers, and street vendors are among the most affected, as they are exposed to direct sunlight for long hours. Even during the night, the air in some areas still feels warm, making it difficult for people to rest comfortably.
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| PHOTO 1 |
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| PHOTO 2 PHOTO 1 AND PHOTO 2 : Local boats, known in my area of Pontianak, West Kalimantan, Indonesia as “Bandung,” are busy every day transporting passengers and cargo across the Kapuas River. Their activities can be affected by smoke caused by land clearing. If they are unable to sail, they cannot earn a living. Photo Istimewa |
Hundreds of Hotspots Detected
Another worrying sign is the detection of hundreds of hotspots across Kalimantan. Hotspots are areas identified by satellites that show higher-than-normal surface temperatures. These hotspots are often associated with dry land conditions and can indicate early signs of forest and land fire risks.
BMKG clarifies that Indonesia’s rainy season does not mean it rains every day in every region. Weather patterns can shift temporarily due to regional and global atmospheric conditions. Short dry spells can still occur, even in the middle of the rainy season.
However, what makes this event stand out is the combination of long dry days, high temperatures, and increasing hotspots. This combination is what makes the current heat feel more intense and concerning.
BMKG and health authorities remind the public to pay close attention to their health during this period. Extreme heat can cause several health problems, such as: Dehydration, Heat exhaustion Dizziness and headaches, Fatigue and lack of concentration.
Children, elderly people, and those with existing health conditions are especially vulnerable. People are advised to: • Drink enough water throughout the day, even if not feeling thirsty • Reduce outdoor activities during peak heat hours (around 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) • Wear light, breathable clothing • Take breaks and rest in shaded or cool areas
My friends. Simple steps like these can help reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Fire Risk Remains a Serious Concern
With dry conditions and rising temperatures, the risk of forest and land fires remains a serious concern in Kalimantan. Past experiences have shown how devastating fires can be, affecting air quality, public health, transportation, and even neighboring countries. BMKG urges local governments, companies, and communities to stay alert. Early detection, quick response, and prevention are key to avoiding large-scale fires.
Residents are strongly encouraged not to burn land, even for traditional farming purposes, during this dry and hot period. One small spark can quickly turn into a large fire under these conditions. The good news is that BMKG predicts this extreme heat condition will gradually ease in the coming days. Changes in regional weather patterns are expected to bring more cloud cover and increase the chances of rainfall in Kalimantan.
However, BMKG also reminds the public that weather changes can be unpredictable. People should continue to follow official updates and warnings. This period of extreme heat in Kalimantan is a reminder of how dynamic and complex Indonesia’s weather system can be. Even during the rainy season, certain regions can experience dry and hot conditions due to shifting atmospheric patterns.
For now, the best approach is awareness and preparedness. By staying informed, taking care of health, and avoiding activities that increase fire risk, communities can reduce the impact of this extreme weather. As BMKG continues to monitor the situation, residents are encouraged to rely on official information and remain cautious until weather conditions fully stabilize.
To all my friends in Kalimantan province especially in my area West Kalinantan , Stay Alert and Stay Safe
Happy Weekend my friends
A Message From Asep Haryono
"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well. Please leave any comment down below. Let me hear from you. Greetings from Indonesia"
It's not good to go without rain. We don't have that problem over here in Scotland. It rains a lot over. We rarely get sun. Summers over here don't last long! Keep drinking plenty water as dehydration is awful.
ReplyDeleteHi Mrs Ananka
DeleteI awake up this early morning and notice your comment. Its 4.20 AM and still dark outside my house
Thank you, Yes, going without rain for many days really changes everything here. Scotland sounds very different lots of rain and little sun
I guess every place has its own challenges. You’re right about hydration, it’s very important in this heat.
Hope you’re doing well there, even with all the rain!
Delete
Oh that's terrible. I hate the summers where I live because in the Summer we can get up to 120F/48C and people die here too. The heat is no joke and can do a lot of harm if you don't have enough water or are out in it for too long.
ReplyDeleteA week ago, we suffered from extreme cold—42 degrees below zero. Today, it's warmer: -20 degrees.
ReplyDeleteI don't know which is worse: the extreme heat or the extreme cold.