Drought Hits 10 Villages Across Six Districts in Purbalingga, Central Java

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Purbalingga Regency, Central Java, has reported that 10 villages across six districts are currently affected by drought, with residents in need of clean water supplies as the dry season persists.

“The six districts are Karangreja, Karanganyar, Pengadegan, Kejobong, Kemangkon, and Rembang,” said Revon Haprindiat, Head of BPBD Purbalingga, on Monday (20/7/2026). He noted that the number of affected villages is likely to increase as the dry season continues, with several springs already experiencing a decline in water discharge.

In addition to the dry season, the water supply issues have been exacerbated by water networks that have not yet recovered from damage caused by flash floods and landslides in January 2026. Consequently, BPBD is still required to distribute clean water aid to villages such as Serang and Kutabawa.

Revon urged the public to use water wisely during the dry season. He also reminded residents to be vigilant against the risk of forest and land fires (karhutla), advising them not to clear land by burning, to avoid discarding cigarette butts carelessly, and to ensure fires are completely extinguished after use, especially in forested areas and on hiking trails. He emphasized that firefighting efforts in mountainous areas are particularly difficult due to limited access and scarce water sources.