Threat of the "Godzilla" El Niño to the Elderly in Jakarta

JAKARTA – The “Godzilla” El Niño phenomenon, expected to impact Jakarta, brings more than just extreme weather. Behind the rising temperatures and worsening air, there are growing health risks, with the elderly being the most vulnerable group. Head of the DKI Jakarta Health Service, Ani Ruspitawati, stated that children and the elderly are the groups most at risk when temperatures rise and air quality declines. She also highlighted the deterioration in air quality, marked by an increase in fine particulates. This condition can trigger a surge in acute respiratory tract infections (ISPA), especially among groups with weaker immune systems. In such situations, the elderly are the most affected due to their generally declining health conditions. Public health practitioner Dr Ngabila Salama explained that the elderly’s vulnerability to extreme heat is related to changes in bodily functions. In the elderly, the thirst mechanism diminishes, so they often do not realise they are already dehydrated. “Heart attacks or strokes could increase, blood pressure may become unstable, and blood sugar levels could become erratic,” said Ngabila when contacted on Friday (17/4/2026). Many elderly people also have chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and lung disorders. This condition means that exposure to heat is no longer just causing discomfort but can trigger more serious disorders. Ngabila noted that the most severe impact on the elderly is heat-related illnesses. These include severe dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which can be fatal.