Prolonged Drought Threatens 1,400 Hectares of Farmland in Parigi Moutong with Crop Failure

Drought has struck nine villages in Parigi Moutong Regency, Central Sulawesi. The disaster threatens at least 1,400 hectares of residents’ agricultural and plantation land. No rain has fallen in the area since mid-June 2026, triggering a drastic decline in water levels as of Friday (21/8).

Head of the Central Sulawesi Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), Asbudianto, confirmed the incident. The affected areas are spread across Mepanga, Bolano Lambunu, and Tomini districts.

“The water level at the main water source in Kayu Agung Village is now only 25 percent of normal conditions. Residents’ water supply has become very limited,” said Asbudianto.

The largest affected rice fields and plantations are located in the Kotaraya area, Ogotion Village, Anutapura Village, and West Ambesia Village. Residents are concerned about the threat of crop failure if rain does not fall soon.

In addition to damaging agricultural land, two households in Kayu Agung Village now urgently require clean water supplies. The Central Sulawesi BPBD team, together with local village officials, immediately moved to the location. Officers conducted rapid assessments and recorded residents’ needs in the field.

“Residents currently need water pump machines, bore well construction, and clean water supplies,” Asbudianto added.

The BPBD has urged residents to conserve water usage. Officers continue to monitor the developing situation at the drought locations.