South Kalimantan BPBD Awaits BMKG Recommendation to Extend Weather Modification Operations

The South Kalimantan Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) is awaiting a recommendation from the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) regarding the extension of Weather Modification Operations (OMC) to tackle forest and land fires in the region. Head of BPBD Kalsel, Ronny Eka Saputra, stated that the operations have proceeded as planned from 15 to 21 July, but the decision to extend or halt activities is pending a technical evaluation from BMKG. “The OMC has been running since 15 July as scheduled for seven days until 21 July. However, we are currently waiting for advice and input from BMKG colleagues on whether this operation can be continued or should be stopped,” he said in Banjarbaru on Wednesday. He explained that the recommendation will consider atmospheric conditions and the potential for cloud distribution across South Kalimantan, with the evaluation results expected later in the day. Ronny noted that during the past week of operations, several areas experienced moderate rainfall. Although not heavy, the rain has had a positive impact on efforts to handle forest and land fires, significantly reducing air temperatures and helping to extinguish several hotspots.