Heatwave Hits Europe, Will It Happen in Indonesia?

A heatwave is currently affecting several European countries, with temperatures far above normal triggering various disruptions, from forest fires to increased health risks. In Indonesia, hot weather is also being felt in several regions ahead of the peak of the dry season. However, according to a press release from the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the hot temperatures in Indonesia cannot be directly classified as a heatwave. BMKG emphasised that Indonesia is located in a tropical region with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year, unlike subtropical or four-season countries. The agency explained that heatwaves typically occur in mid-to-high latitude regions that experience seasonal changes. The phenomenon is characterised by a rise in temperature far exceeding the climatological average for several consecutive days, a characteristic not found in Indonesia. BMKG explained that the hot air temperatures felt in Indonesia are more influenced by factors such as the apparent position of the sun, reduced cloud cover allowing maximum solar radiation, and atmospheric conditions that support rising surface temperatures. During the dry season, clear weather also makes daytime air temperatures feel more intense. A heatwave, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), is a period of weather with temperatures significantly higher than normal conditions in a region, lasting for several consecutive days. This phenomenon can occur on land or in urban areas experiencing the urban heat island effect. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) explains that there is no single temperature threshold applicable to all countries; a heatwave is determined based on temperatures well above the average for a specific area over a period of at least two to three days. According to the WMO, heatwaves generally occur when a high-pressure system persists over an area for an extended period, trapping hot air near the surface and causing temperatures to rise during the day and remain high at night. Climate change due to global warming has also increased the frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwaves worldwide. The World Meteorological Organization notes that extreme heat events are now occurring more frequently than in previous decades. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) reported by the BBC indicates that more than 1,300 excess deaths have occurred since 21 June 2026 due to the scorching temperatures. Within days, several countries were forced to concede to record-breaking high temperatures. The WHO considers this crisis a serious health threat requiring a rapid and coordinated response. The UN agency is working with member states and various partners to strengthen preparedness, enhance preventive measures, and reinforce healthcare systems to cope with extreme temperatures. Additionally, the WHO is urging the implementation of national heat-health action plans. Meanwhile, the extreme heatwave since late June also caused approximately 1,000 additional deaths in France, according to the Ministry of Health. Record-breaking temperatures, peaking on 23 June, led to a surge in daily deaths to over 1,400 cases, far above the normal average. The elderly were the most affected group, accounting for 85 percent of the victims. Deaths increased in hospitals, nursing homes, and private residences, with a significant 40 percent surge in deaths at home. Local authorities have stressed that these figures are still provisional and currently cover only about 60 percent of national death reports.