The rising trend of temperature in Indonesia shows a notable increase that exceeds 0.55 degrees Celsius. This substantial anomaly has been officially confirmed by Erma Yulihastin, a climatology researcher at the Climate and Atmosphere Center of BRIN (Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology). Actually, what causes this temperature increase?
This significant rise in temperature is attributed to the occurrence of the El Nino phenomenon in Indonesia, which leads to heightened dryness and exceptionally hot conditions during the usual dry season.
Erma Yulihastin affirms, “Yes, the presence of El Nino in Indonesia has been confirmed. The temperature continues to rise steadily, with El Nino reaching 0.81 degrees Celsius. However, the official confirmation is expected in August.”
While El Nino poses challenges, there is a silver lining for Indonesia as the country benefits from the emergence of the tropical cyclone named Guchol.
In anticipation of potential heatwaves and droughts exacerbated by El Nino, Erma Yulihastin provides valuable recommendations for mitigating the impact. She suggests deeper well digging or the use of more efficient water pumps to ensure adequate water supply, emphasizing the importance of managing the impending clean water crisis.
Furthermore, she highlights the significance of extensive tree planting initiatives, creating absorption areas to enhance water retention, and advocates for the use of sunscreen to protect the skin.
Erma Yulihastin explains, “Maintaining proper hydration by consuming abundant water and limiting sun exposure during peak daily temperatures are crucial strategies to counteract the combined effects of dryness and heat, particularly in El Nino-induced clear sky conditions where prolonged exposure to solar UV radiation is intensified.”
Recognizing the severity of the situation, Lieutenant General TNI Suharyanto, the Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), emphasizes that effective preventive measures and emergency responses are vital in addressing hydro-meteorological disasters such as forest and land fires (karhutla) and droughts triggered by weather conditions. BNPB is committed to minimizing the adverse consequences of such disasters.
Preliminary data until June 1, 2023, reveals that Indonesia has already encountered 112 karhutla incidents, necessitating a focused approach for disaster management.
BNPB has identified seven priority regions, namely Riau, Jambi, South Sumatra, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, East Kalimantan, and East Nusa Tenggara, which are perennially prone to karhutla disasters. Consequently, an emergency response status has been declared across all these provinces, underscoring the urgency of effective measures.
The escalating temperature trend, induced by the ongoing El Nino phenomenon, demands immediate attention and comprehensive strategies to safeguard Indonesia from the implications of climate change.
The collaborative efforts of various organizations, researchers, and government agencies are vital to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by rising temperatures, including the implementation of sustainable practices, resource management, and disaster preparedness.
