Indonesia Prepares for El Nino Threat with Drought and Fire Prevention Measures

Indonesia's government is proactively preparing for the anticipated arrival of El Nino and the dry season, implementing a multi-pronged strategy to mitigate potential drought and widespread forest and land fires (karhutla).

President Prabowo Subianto has directed a coordinated response, involving the deployment of dedicated ground and air task forces. A central element of this strategy is the optimization of weather modification operations (OMC), which will not only focus on extinguishing existing fires but also on ensuring sufficient water levels in reservoirs and lakes throughout the dry period.

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We want to ensure that the government is also ready with task forces, both ground and air task forces, and including by carrying out weather modification operations.

The government plans to enhance the effectiveness of OMC by incorporating new technologies, including drones, alongside conventional methods. This technological integration aims to improve efficiency and responsiveness in managing weather patterns.

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The methodology for OMC is increasingly developing. Not only using conventional methods, but also utilizing technological developments such as drones to make it more effective and efficient.

Beyond immediate fire prevention, Indonesia is also developing long-term strategies to bolster national water resilience. Recognizing the challenge of uneven water distribution across the archipelago, plans include desalination for island regions and the purification of brackish water, tailored to the specific characteristics of different areas.

Risk assessments provided by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) and the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) will guide these mitigation efforts. The government emphasizes a comprehensive approach, addressing both water scarcity and the prevention of forest fires, with President Prabowo stressing the need for readiness across all levels of government, including regional authorities.

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President Prabowo Subianto is very concerned and has given tactical directives to all staff so that everyone is ready, including the regional government.