Nine Regencies in South Sumatra Declare Forest and Land Fire Alert Status

The South Sumatra Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has reported that nine regencies in the province have now declared a state of alert for forest and land fires (karhutla) to boost preparedness for the peak of the 2026 dry season. Sudirman, Head of Emergency Management at BPBD South Sumatra, stated on Wednesday that Musi Rawas Regency became the latest area to adopt the status after its regent signed a decree that will remain in effect until November 2026. The designation provides local authorities with a legal basis to optimise prevention efforts and enhance readiness against potential fires during the dry season. As of mid-July 2026, the nine regencies with active alert statuses are Muara Enim, Banyuasin, Musi Banyuasin, Ogan Ilir, Ogan Komering Ilir, Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir (PALI), Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU), North Musi Rawas (Muratara), and Musi Rawas. BPBD South Sumatra noted that Musi Rawas has experienced nine fire incidents this year, with the highest concentration in Muara Kelingi sub-district. The regency is currently classified as a yellow zone, indicating between one and 15 fire events. Additionally, 185 hotspots were detected in Musi Rawas from January to mid-July 2026, with numbers expected to rise as rainfall decreases and the dry season peaks between August and September.