Parts of Indonesia Still Rainy Despite Dry Season, Says BNPB

Parts of Indonesia Still Rainy Despite Dry Season, Says BNPB

Parts of Indonesia Still Rainy Despite – Despite the typical onset of the dry season, certain regions in Indonesia continue to experience significant rainfall, according to the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). The weather anomalies, reported by Tempo.CO, Jakarta, highlight a stark contrast between the northern and equatorial areas, which remain wet, and the central and southern parts of the country, where drought conditions are becoming more pronounced. This unusual pattern has raised concerns among meteorologists and local authorities, as it disrupts seasonal expectations and impacts water resources across the archipelago.

Meteorological Anomalies and Regional Impacts

The BNPB’s Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center has attributed the persistent rainfall to a combination of global atmospheric forces and localized weather dynamics. Abdul Muhari, the head of the center, explained that interactions between the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and Kelvin Waves have created an unstable air mass, leading to frequent precipitation events in areas like the Riau Islands and West Kalimantan. These regions, typically expected to see a decline in rainfall during the dry season, are now recording abnormal levels, with the Riau Islands reporting up to 81 mm of rain per day in late June and early July 2026.

“Although the dry season is expanding across Indonesia, some areas—particularly the northern regions and equatorial zones—continue to receive light to heavy rainfall,” said Abdul Muhari. “This highlights the complexity of weather patterns and the need for proactive monitoring and preparedness.”

Meanwhile, Central Papua, North Sumatra, and other parts of the country are witnessing lower-than-average precipitation, contributing to the drying of soil and water sources. The BNPB’s data also indicates that the Equatorial Rossby Wave phenomenon is playing a role in these discrepancies, creating a patchwork of weather conditions that challenge traditional seasonal forecasts. This has prompted officials to emphasize the importance of regional adaptability in disaster response strategies.

El Niño’s Effect on Drought Conditions

The prolonged drought in many parts of Indonesia is closely linked to the El Niño phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, which has intensified heatwaves and reduced rainfall in regions such as Lampung, Central Java, and East Kalimantan. These areas have recorded temperatures exceeding 35°C, leading to water shortages and increased fire risks. The contrast between the wet and dry regions underscores the broader climate changes affecting the country, with experts warning that such anomalies could become more frequent in the coming years.

According to the BNPB, 493 locations across Indonesia are currently experiencing extended dry spells, which have strained agricultural production and daily water supply. Farmers in drought-prone areas report reduced crop yields, while urban centers face challenges in maintaining clean water distribution. The agency has called for enhanced collaboration between regional governments and communities to mitigate these effects, particularly in regions most vulnerable to water scarcity.

Abdul Muhari further noted that the interplay of atmospheric waves has disrupted the usual flow of moisture across the country. While the MJO and Kelvin Waves contribute to rainfall in northern regions, their absence in the south has allowed the El Niño-driven heat to dominate. This dynamic creates a fragmented climate scenario, where some areas benefit from unexpected rain while others face prolonged dryness. The BNPB has advised local authorities to prioritize water conservation efforts and monitor weather patterns closely to prepare for potential extremes.

Additionally, the agency highlighted the role of equatorial air instability in sustaining the wet conditions. This instability, combined with the influence of oceanic currents, has created localized microclimates that defy broader seasonal trends. Experts suggest that such anomalies may be exacerbated by global climate change, making it imperative for Indonesia to adopt resilient strategies for managing water resources and disaster risks.

Read: Indonesia Distributes Clean Water to Drought-Hit Regions Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News