TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Extreme hot weather has returned to several parts of Indonesia as the dry season approaches. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has identified this phenomenon as a result of the transition from the rainy season to the dry season, a period marked by clear skies and minimal cloud cover from morning until afternoon.
This lack of cloud cover allows maximum solar radiation to reach the Earth's surface, leading to a significant increase in surface temperatures.
Guswanto, the Deputy of Meteorology at BMKG, explained that Indonesia's equatorial location makes it particularly susceptible to direct sunlight. He noted that the apparent position of the sun is currently crossing the equator and gradually moving northward. In early May 2025, the sun's declination is approximately 11.2 degrees North Latitude, meaning most Indonesian regions are still receiving substantial sunlight.
This situation is further intensified by clear weather, low air humidity, and weak winds. Consequently, the heating of the Earth's surface intensifies, especially during daylight hours. The periods of April to May and September to October are typically the hottest times of the year.
According to a report by Antara on March 17, 2025, BMKG forecasts that the peak of the dry season in Indonesia will occur in June, July, and August 2025. While the onset of the dry season is expected to be normal in some areas, it is anticipated to be delayed in others.
The Acting Head of BMKG, Dwikorita Karnawati, elaborated that the initial pattern of this year's dry season will vary across different regions.
"Compared to the climatological average from 1991 to 2020, the beginning of the 2025 dry season in Indonesia is predicted to coincide with the normal period in 207 ZOM (30 percent), be delayed in 204 ZOM (29 percent), and occur earlier in 104 ZOM (22 percent)," Dwikorita stated during a press conference in Jakarta on Wednesday, March 13, 2025.
South Papua and East Java Record Highest Temperatures
BMKG data reveals concerning maximum temperatures in several regions. Tanah Merah in South Papua recorded highs of 38.4°C on March 29, 2025, and 37.0°C on April 21, 2025, making it one of the hottest areas. Meanwhile, the Juanda Meteorological Station in East Java registered a temperature of 37.9°C on April 23, 2025. Temperatures exceeding 35°C were also recorded in regions such as Lampung and various parts of East Java towards the end of April.
Guswanto cautioned that residents in southern equatorial regions, including Java Island, Nusa Tenggara, and parts of Sumatra, need to exercise increased vigilance. "These areas have land surfaces that readily absorb heat and relatively dry conditions, making them more susceptible to extreme heat accumulation during the day," he warned.
Health and Environmental Risks Highlighted
BMKG also warned of the potential long-term consequences of this extreme heat. The risk of dehydration and heatstroke poses a major threat, particularly to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and outdoor workers. Prolonged high temperatures can also lead to localized droughts and reduced availability of clean water, impacting daily life and public health.
Furthermore, these hot and dry conditions elevate the risk of forest and land fires, especially in areas with minimal rainfall. BMKG strongly urges the public to remain vigilant against this danger and to monitor weather updates regularly to prepare for potential widespread impacts.
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