Hikers Warned of Cold Temperatures on Mount Rinjani; TNGR Alerts of Hypothermia Risks

The Mount Rinjani National Park Office (TNGR) in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) has warned hikers and tourists to remain vigilant against extreme drops in air temperature within the Mount Rinjani area. Budy Kurniawan, Head of the TNGR NTB Office, revealed that weather conditions on Mount Rinjani are significantly colder than in previous periods. He emphasised that climbers should not be deceived by bright daytime weather.

“Tourists or hikers need thorough preparation because current weather conditions feel much colder. Do not be complacent with the sunny daytime weather, as temperatures can change drastically at night,” Budund stated in a written briefing in Mataram on Wednesday.

According to data from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the significant temperature drop from night to morning indicates that the NTB region has entered the dry season. The drier air causes the release of terrestrial heat into the atmosphere to occur more rapidly, leading to sharp temperature drops in mountainous areas. Budy explained that these conditions increase the risk of hypothermia for Rinjani climbers, particularly when resting or staying in open areas exposed to strong winds.

The TNGR Office is intensifying socialisation efforts among tourists, guides, and porters to ensure safety standards are maintained. “Safe climbing begins with thorough preparation. Let us enjoy the beauty of Rinjani while prioritising safety,” he concluded.

Climbers are also urged to continuously monitor the latest weather developments through official BMKG channels or information centres at official trekking gates, such as Sembalun and Senaru, before beginning their journey to the 3,726-metre summit.