Extreme Heat In Kotim Triggered By Tropical Cyclone Narelle, BMKG Explains
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| Extreme heat in Kotim is caused by Tropical Cyclone Narelle. BMKG explains the impact and BPBD warns of rising wildfire risks due to reduced rainfall. |
Sampit – The recent surge in extreme heat across Kotawaringin Timur (Kotim), Central Kalimantan, over the past week has now been explained. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), through the Haji Asan Meteorological Station in Sampit, confirmed that the phenomenon is influenced by Tropical Cyclone Narelle.
BMKG forecaster Mitra Hutauruk stated that although Kotim is currently in the rainy season, the presence of the tropical cyclone has disrupted rain cloud formation.
“Over the past few days, Tropical Cyclone Narelle has caused air mass concentration to shift toward the southern region, making it difficult for rain clouds to form,” she explained in Sampit on Saturday.
Impact Of Tropical Cyclone Narelle
According to BMKG, since mid-March 2026, Tropical Cyclone Narelle has been actively observed south of Indonesia, particularly over the Indian Ocean. Although it does not directly pass over Central Kalimantan, its indirect effects are significant.
The cyclone, which developed from tropical disturbance 96P, has strong atmospheric dynamics that pull air masses southward, away from Kalimantan, including Kotawaringin Timur.
As a result, rainfall in the region has decreased significantly, leading to higher temperatures and noticeably hotter weather conditions.
“This condition is temporary and is expected to subside within the next few days as the cyclone weakens,” Hutauruk added.
Rising Hotspots And Wildfire Risks
The impact of this weather anomaly goes beyond rising temperatures. It has also led to an increase in hotspots, signaling higher risks of forest and land fires.
The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Kotim reported several wildfire incidents over the past week. These occurred in areas such as Jalan Ir Soekarno in Baamang District and Bengkuang Makmur Village in Mentawa Baru Ketapang District.
Head of BPBD Kotim, Multazam, urged the public to avoid burning land, especially under current dry conditions.
“Rainfall has decreased, making the land drier and more prone to fires. We strongly urge the public not to clear land by burning,” he emphasized.
Peatland Conditions Increase Fire Risk
Multazam also highlighted that much of Kotim consists of peatland, which significantly increases fire risk during dry conditions.
Peat soil is highly flammable and difficult to extinguish because fires can spread underground even after surface flames appear to be out.
“Even when the fire looks extinguished on the surface, it can continue burning underground. This makes firefighting efforts much more challenging,” he explained.
Prevention Efforts Intensified
Local authorities, along with BPBD, are continuing to intensify preventive measures, including public awareness campaigns to discourage land burning.
These efforts aim to reduce wildfire risks and prevent haze, which can negatively impact public health and daily activities.
FAQ
1. Why is the weather in Kotim hot even during the rainy season?
Because Tropical Cyclone Narelle is pulling air masses southward, reducing cloud formation and rainfall.
2. What is Tropical Cyclone Narelle?
It is a powerful storm system formed over the Indian Ocean from tropical disturbance 96P.
3. How long will this condition last?
BMKG predicts the situation is temporary and will improve within a few days.
4. Why is wildfire risk increasing?
Reduced rainfall leads to drier land conditions, making it easier for fires to ignite, especially in peat areas.
5. What is the government’s advice to residents?
Residents are urged not to burn land to prevent forest and land fires.
