We're now in the middle of 2020, usually the hottest period of the year.

The Southwest monsoon, between June and September, brings about low-level winds and hence a drier weather condition that can worsen forest fires in this region.

Declare state of emergency to curb increased hotspots

Central Kalimantan, the third largest Indonesian province, was facing over 700 hotspots at the start of this dry season.

In response, the province has declared a state of emergency according to CNA, which will last from July 1 to September 28.

The authorities will increase patrols and extinguishing efforts to prevent the spread of fires.

Another two provinces which have also declared a state of emergency are Riau and South Sumatra in view of the dry season.

An official from the environment and forestry ministry, Radian Bagiyono, said that the peak season is likely to be in August.

Budget cut due to Covid-19

There have been some concerns over the return of haze in the region as a result of widespread forest fires earlier this year, while Covid-19 was breaking out.

The pandemic has resulted in a budget cut for the environment ministry working to contain forest fires.

Besides economic losses, Covid-19 has caused resources to be redirected to the health ministry to control the outbreak in Indonesia.

Activists of Greenpeace Indonesia are concerned that the budget cut will leave the local community to fend for themselves.

Furthermore, air pollution from the fires can lead to more demand for N95 masks and increases the risk towards vulnerable groups.

Top photo by Zulfahmi/ WWF-Indonesia