TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has responded to a series of forest and land fires brought on by the ongoing dry season and the El Nino phenomenon.
Based on data compiled as of August 2, 2026, BNPB's Head of the Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Center, Abdul Muhari, confirmed that forest fires and drought continue to dominate disaster reports across several regions.
A forest fire broke out in Taddakong Village, Lembang District, Pinrang Regency, South Sulawesi, on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at around 7:00 p.m. WITA.
"The blaze is suspected to have been sparked by dry foliage and brush in rocky, hilly terrain that easily catches fire in high temperatures, leading to sudden hotspots," Abdul Muhari noted in an official statement on Sunday, August 2, 2026.
According to a report from the Pinrang Regency Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), the incident resulted in no casualties. However, the affected area is estimated at roughly five hectares.
In response to the emergency, the Pinrang BPBD immediately conducted an assessment and data collection at the site while monitoring ground developments. Abdul noted that fire suppression efforts were supported by the local fire department and community members.
Additionally, the Pinrang BPBD Rapid Response Team (TRC), working alongside military personnel, police officers, and local residents, tackled the flames using the fire-breaking method. The fire-breaking technique involves creating a containment line by clearing vegetation around hotspots to prevent the fire from spreading further.
Another forest fire was reported in Central Java Province. Abdul stated that BNPB received reports of a wildfire in Wonogiri Regency, specifically in Gemantar Village, Selogiri District.
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the fire. "The incident caused no casualties, while the affected land area is estimated at around four hectares," Abdul said.
The Wonogiri BPBD promptly carried out a rapid assessment at the location and joined firefighting operations. Abdul confirmed that according to the latest report received on Saturday, the fire was successfully extinguished, eliminating any further threat to the surrounding area.
Beyond wildfires, El Niño-induced rainfall deficits have triggered severe clean water shortages in Banyumas Regency, Central Java Province. Abdul pointed out that conditions in Banyumas were deteriorating, making it difficult for residents to secure water for daily needs.
The Banyumas BPBD, in coordination with village officials, humanitarian groups, and local residents, continues working to meet the basic needs of affected households. Immediate priorities currently include supplying clean water and providing storage containers.
As of Saturday, August 1, 2026, the Banyumas BPBD had delivered a total of 27,000 liters of clean water, or equivalent to five tanker trucks, across several affected locations.
A delivery of 4,000 liters from Perumda Pabuwaran was dispatched to Grumbul Tembelang in Sudimara Village, Cilongok District.
"An additional 8,000 liters from Perumda Tonjong Ajibarang was delivered to the Hidayatul Kholil and An Najah Islamic Boarding Schools in Rancamaya Village, Cilongok District," he added.
Furthermore, the BPBD supplied 5,000 liters to Langgongsari Village in Cilongok District via the Karangbawang hydrant, 5,000 liters to Jingkang Village in Ajibarang District from PDAM Tonjong, and another 5,000 liters to Cipete Village in Cilongok District, also sourced from PDAM Tonjong.
BNPB commended the quick response of local governments and all stakeholders involved in managing the drought crisis. The agency urged regional authorities to remain vigilant, optimize water distribution to hard-hit areas, and encourage residents to practice water conservation during the dry season.
Abdul advised residents to notify village officials or their local BPBD if their area faces clean water shortages so assistance can be deployed promptly and accurately. "We urge the public to refrain from open burning or any activity that could spark fires," he said. "Residents should also immediately alert the BPBD or relevant authorities if they spot signs of fire so emergency teams can respond swiftly and effectively."
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