Indonesia disaster report: forest fires and earthquake refugee deaths

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported on recent disaster developments across Indonesia. Between September 15 and 16, 2026, forest and land fires (karhutla) were the dominant incidents, particularly in Sulawesi and Java.

In Sulawesi, fires affected 3 hectares in Majene, West Sulawesi, with no reported casualties. However, a fire in Pinrang, South Sulawesi, resulted in the death of one officer during firefighting efforts. In East Java, a fire destroyed 3 hectares of Perhutani land in Trenggalek, which was successfully extinguished by joint teams.

Regarding the earthquake aftermath in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), BNPB clarified that 94 refugees died at evacuation sites. Investigations by BNPB and the Ministry of Health revealed these were indirect deaths rather than direct trauma from the earthquake. The deceased were primarily elderly individuals suffering from chronic conditions such as stroke and diabetes mellitus. BNPB continues to prioritize medical services and distribute essential supplies through logistics posts in Labuan Bajo and Maumere.