Recently, some regions in Indonesia have been hit by a heat wave, causing temperatures to soar higher and last longer than usual. In response to this phenomenon, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has provided an explanation of when this situation will end.
According to the BMKG, the current heat wave is a natural occurrence caused by the apparent movement of the sun, which creates an annual cycle. The potential for such hot temperatures to occur repeatedly at the same time each year is high.
This annual cycle has an impact on the island of Java, where temperatures slightly rise in April and May, then peak in October. In the remaining months, temperatures will drop.
However, compared to other regions such as Europe and America, the temperature drop in Indonesia is not as significant, with temperatures still hovering around 30 degrees Celsius.
Kepala Pusat Layanan Iklim Terapan BMKG, Ardhasena Sopaheluwakan, stated that Indonesia is a tropical country and that temperatures will remain relatively constant around 30 degrees Celsius.
He recommended that people adjust their outdoor activities by using protective gear such as umbrellas, hats, or sunscreen.
Sena also warned the public that Indonesia is currently transitioning from the rainy season to the dry season. In 2023, Indonesia will experience a fairly long dry season. The BMKG predicts that the dry season will occur from the end of May to the end of September.
“People need to anticipate the drought that will occur during the dry season,” Sena said. “But the drought that occurs during the dry season is a consequence of the current heat wave.”
Regions that are potentially vulnerable to drought are those located in the southern part of the equator, including Java, Bali, Nusa Tenggara, Central Kalimantan, South Kalimantan, and most of southern Sumatra, from Riau to the south.
In contrast to the last three years, which have been relatively wet due to the La Nina climate phenomenon, this year’s dry season may be more severe. The BMKG has advised the public to prepare for the potential impact of the dry season, which may include water scarcity, forest fires, and other related problems.
