BMKG Forecasts Dry Season in South Sumatra Starting in May 2026

The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) forecasts that the dry season in South Sumatra (Sumsel) will begin in May 2026, with the peak occurring in July to August. Wandayantolis, Head of the BMKG Climatology Station in Sumsel, stated in Palembang on Monday that several areas in Sumsel are likely to experience an earlier dry season compared to other regions. Based on climate analysis, the peak dry season will occur first in Seasonal Zones (ZOM) 125 and 135, potentially one month earlier than usual. ZOM 125 covers Palembang, Musi Banyuasin, Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir, Muara Enim, and Ogan Ilir, while ZOM 135 includes Ogan Komering Ilir (OKI) and East Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU). Meanwhile, 12 other ZOMs in South Sumatra are expected to reach their dry season peak in August 2026. 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 is predicted to be about one month later than normal. 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. “Central Sumsel areas are predicted to face the longest dry period, around 13 to 15 decades,” he said. BMKG advises the public to heighten vigilance against dry season impacts, particularly the potential for forest and land fires (karhutla), droughts, and limited clean water supplies. Additionally, local governments are requested to boost readiness, including controlling hot spots and managing water resources to minimise impacts during the dry season period.