A spell of cold weather has recently given rise to the stunning frost phenomenon in the Bromo Tengger Semeru area, captivating both local and international tourists. However, while this natural wonder draws many visitors, caution is advised due to the chilling temperatures.
Septi Eka Wardhani, Head of Administration at the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS), highlighted this on Wednesday (July 17, 2024). In a video press release, she mentioned that the Bromo Tengger Semeru area is experiencing extremely cold conditions, with morning temperatures dropping to as low as 5 degrees Celsius.
“We urge visitors to the Bromo Tengger Semeru area to dress appropriately for these extreme temperatures,” she said, as reported by Kompas.
The extreme cold can cause frost, observable before sunrise. “This phenomenon usually occurs from July to August when the TNBTS area is very cold,” Septi explained.
Locals often refer to frost as “embun upas,” a phenomenon that frequently occurs in the TNBTS area, especially during the dry season. Embun upas happens due to cold air resulting from the east monsoon winds blowing from Australia.
Read also: Netherlands Sets Sights on IKN: Major Investments in Clean Water and Agriculture on the Horizon
“This phenomenon occurs when the air temperature is cold enough, around 5-9 degrees Celsius, and can only be seen in the morning or before the sun rises fully. Embun upas disappears as the sun rises,” Septi added.
The appearance of frost resembling snow has been happening for some time in Bromo, adding to the exotic charm of the tourist area around Mount Bromo. The sight of the white, frosty sea of sand is particularly striking.
Visitors to the Bromo tourist area are advised to wear thick clothing and jackets, gloves, and hats. Those with a history of asthma should be especially careful and maintain their health.
Moreover, as the dry season has begun, Septi also urged everyone to be cautious and avoid starting fires around the TNBTS area. The dry weather increases the risk of forest fires, requiring extra vigilance.
Additionally, data shows a significant increase in visitors, reaching 5,201 tourists last weekend, even exceeding the daily maximum quota on Sunday (July 14, 2024). Specifically, there were 2,148 visitors on Saturday, comprising 2,601 domestic tourists and 87 foreign tourists.
In sum, while the frost phenomenon in the Bromo Tengger Semeru area offers a breathtaking sight and attracts numerous tourists, it is crucial to remain vigilant about the cold temperatures and the increased risk of forest fires during the dry season.
