Jakarta, ThedailyID — Indonesia recorded 1,176 high-confidence hotspots linked to potential forest and land fires as several regions in Sumatra and Kalimantan saw increases.
The Ministry of Forestry reported the figures through its SiPongi early detection system. Satellite monitoring recorded the hotspots as of 9 p.m. Western Indonesian Time on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
The national total fell by 25 hotspots from 1,201 recorded on Tuesday, October 6. However, four of the six priority provinces reported increases.
Central Kalimantan recorded 225 hotspots, up from 182 the previous day. South Sumatra also saw a sharp rise, reaching 224 hotspots from 71.
West Kalimantan recorded 47 hotspots, compared with 34 previously. South Kalimantan reported 31, up from 18.
Jambi was the only other province to record a decline, falling to 16 hotspots from 21. Riau reported zero hotspots on both days.
The ministry said the regional increases require continued monitoring and a strong field response. Authorities are strengthening patrols, monitoring, and on-site verification, particularly in Central Kalimantan and South Sumatra.
However, a hotspot does not automatically indicate a confirmed fire or measure the area burned. Satellites detect surface temperature anomalies, and a single fire can generate several hotspot readings.
Authorities must therefore verify each indication on the ground before determining the appropriate response.
The government is coordinating fire control efforts through the Ministry of Forestry’s Manggala Agni teams. Other participants include the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, military, police, meteorological agency, regional authorities, communities, and volunteers.
The government has also kept 61 aircraft on standby. Of these, 17 support patrols and weather modification operations, while 44 conduct water-bombing missions.
Air quality remains another concern as fires generate smoke and particulate pollution. The ministry said PM2.5 monitoring showed conditions ranging from good to moderate in some areas, while others experienced unhealthy to very unhealthy air.
Some parts of Kalimantan also showed hazardous air quality. Officials warned that conditions can change depending on fire activity, particulate concentrations, wind direction, wind speed, and atmospheric conditions.
The ministry urged residents in affected areas to follow local air quality updates and government guidance. When pollution worsens, people should reduce outdoor activities and wear masks if they must go outside.
Children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with respiratory conditions or chronic illnesses need particular attention.
Authorities also urged residents and businesses not to clear land by burning. Anyone who spots smoke, fires, illegal burning, or wildlife needing assistance should report it promptly.
The Ministry of Forestry’s fire information post can be reached at 021-5704618, WhatsApp at +62 8131-00-35000, or email at posko.karhutla@kehutanan.go.id.
