Rain in Kobar, Central Kalimantan, Cuts Forest-Fire Hotspots from 1,059 to 22

Rain has fallen across several areas of West Kotawaringin Regency (Kobar), Central Kalimantan. The number of hotspots detected by the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) plunged to 22 on 26 October 2026.

The decline was significant compared with three days earlier. On 24 October 2026, Kobar had 1,059 hotspots. The figure fell to 119 the following day, before dropping again to 22 on Monday (26 October 2026).

BMKG Kobar forecaster on duty Ibnu Ismantoro said rain in several areas could help reduce the haze. Fairly heavy rain was reported in parts of Tanjung Puting National Park, including Tanjung Harapan, Camp Leakey and Pondok Tanggui.

“Rainwater can help clear smoke particles suspended in the atmosphere. This process could reduce particle concentrations in the air, allowing air quality in affected areas to gradually improve,” he said, as quoted by detikKalimantan on Tuesday (27 October 2026).

Rain also helps wet vegetation and land surfaces that had previously been dry. This can reduce the risk of fires starting or spreading, particularly in fire-prone areas.

“Nevertheless, the decline in hotspots does not guarantee that all of Kobar is free from forest and land fires. Haze conditions still depend on the weather, the presence of active fire sources and efforts to tackle fires on the ground,” he said.

Ibnu shared the update on Tuesday (27 October 2026). He said monitoring weather conditions and the distribution of hotspots remained important to track the development of forest and land fires and their effects on the environment and the public.

“Hotspot data are an early indicator that needs to be followed up with field inspections. Therefore, detected hotspots do not automatically represent the number of confirmed active fires,” he said.

Residents have been urged to remain alert, particularly if hot weather returns and land begins to dry out. They have been asked to avoid burning land and to report any flames or signs of fire to officials immediately.

“The fall in hotspots to 22 is a positive development amid efforts to control forest and land fires in Kobar. However, genuine improvements in air quality still need to be confirmed through air-quality monitoring and checks on fire conditions on the ground,” he said.