BMKG warns Kalimantan’s haze may spread to Riau Islands

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2 hours ago

Tanjungpinang, Riau Islands (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) warned on Tuesday that haze from Kalimantan’s land and forest fires could spread to Riau Islands Province in the coming days.

BMKG Tanjungpinang Chief Ahmad Kosasih said mostly partly cloudy weather and limited rainfall in the Riau Islands had not been enough to help clear the haze.

“According to our forecast, there is a possibility of rain, but it will be very localized and light. That is still only our forecast,” Kosasih said in Tanjungpinang.

He said forest and land fires were still burning in Kalimantan, while southeasterly to southerly winds could carry smoke toward the Riau Islands.

“As long as fires continue to burn extensively in Kalimantan, they will continue to affect the Riau Islands,” he said.

BMKG also urged residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks when they must go outside or leave their homes.

It advised residents to monitor their health and seek medical help if they experience breathing difficulties caused by the haze. They should also stay hydrated and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

“Poor visibility caused by dense haze also increases the risk of accidents, so remain vigilant and reduce driving speeds,” Kosasih said.

Dense haze began covering parts of the Riau Islands, including Tanjungpinang and Bintan, on Monday, worsening air quality and raising concerns among Tanjungpinang city officials.

Tanjungpinang Communications and Informatics Agency Chief Teguh Susanto also urged residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks. The city government shifted PAUD, kindergarten, elementary and junior high classes online from September 15-18.

“Air quality is currently unhealthy for sensitive groups, including infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses. Limit outdoor activities and wear masks,” Teguh said.

The haze has also begun disrupting daily activities in Tanjungpinang. Agung, a resident of Kijang Kencana 3 housing complex, said visibility while riding a motorcycle had deteriorated.

He said he wore a mask when traveling by motorcycle because haze-related air pollution could affect breathing.

“We hope the government will help residents cope with the haze, including by providing free masks,” Agung said.