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El Niño Strengthens, Jakarta BPBD Issues Urgent Fire Warning

  • May 6, 2026
  • 2 min read
El Niño Strengthens, Jakarta BPBD Issues Urgent Fire Warning

The DKI Jakarta BPBD’s urgent call to residents to stop burning garbage highlights the increasing fire risk due to the strengthening El Niño phenomenon. This climate event can lead to extreme weather conditions, including prolonged droughts and high temperatures.

Previously, the region experienced a relatively stable climate, with occasional fluctuations. However, recent data indicates a decisive shift. The El Niño phenomenon is now strengthening, which could trigger long droughts that exacerbate fire risks.

As a direct consequence of this climatic change, the Jakarta BPBD has urged residents to cease open burning practices. Open burning of garbage poses a significant danger—especially in densely populated and dry areas—where rapid fire spread can occur.

Marulituwa Sijabat from the BPBD stated, “We urge people to be vigilant about open fires and the use of electrical equipment and fire.” This call for vigilance comes amid increased monitoring in fire-prone areas, where conditions are ripe for emergencies.

In response to these heightened risks, the Jakarta BPBD has prepared firefighting measures and coordinated with BMKG for early warning information. They have ensured that fire hydrants and firefighting fleets are ready for quick response.

Residents are encouraged to report potential emergencies through Jakarta’s 112 service. Preparation is key to reducing risks from extreme climate events like those posed by the current El Niño situation.

This proactive approach reflects a growing awareness of how climate variability impacts local safety and environmental health. As conditions continue to evolve, the focus on emergency preparedness becomes increasingly critical.