BMKG: Dry Season in South Sumatra to Begin in May 2026, Peaking in July-August

Palembang (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) predicts that the dry season in South Sumatra (Sumsel) will begin in May 2026, with the peak dry period expected in July to August. The Head of the BMKG Climatology Station in South Sumatra, Wandayantolis, in Palembang on Monday, stated that several areas in Sumsel are likely to experience the dry season earlier than other regions. Based on climate analysis, the peak dry season will occur first in Seasonal Zones (ZOM) 125 and 135. These areas are projected to reach the peak dry season one month earlier. He explained that ZOM 125 covers Palembang, Musi Banyuasin, Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir, Muara Enim, and Ogan Ilir. Meanwhile, ZOM 135 includes the regions of Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) and East Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU). However, for ZOM 137, which encompasses Pagar Alam, southern and western parts of Lahat, a small portion of southern Musi Rawas, and a small eastern part of Empat Lawang, the peak dry season is predicted to occur about one month later than normal conditions. The duration of the dry season in South Sumatra this year is estimated to last between 7 and 15 decades, or approximately three to five months. BMKG advises the public to increase vigilance against the impacts of the dry season, particularly the potential for forest and land fires (karhutla), drought, and limited access to clean water. In addition, he said, local governments are urged to enhance preparedness, including in controlling hotspots and managing water resources to minimise impacts during the dry season period.