Pati Regency faces severe water crisis and drought

A severe drought in Pati Regency, Indonesia, has left 9,323 residents across 25 villages in nine districts struggling to access clean water. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported that as of early September 2026, they have deployed 44 water tanks to assist affected communities.

Agricultural impacts are also significant, with over 2,000 hectares of rice fields affected, particularly along the Silugonggo River. Additionally, the Gembong Reservoir has seen its water volume drop by more than 80 percent, falling from a capacity of 9.5 million cubic meters to just 2.4 million cubic meters. Officials warn that the remaining water may only suffice for agricultural irrigation for approximately two weeks if no rainfall occurs.

The local government has maintained a disaster alert status for drought and forest/land fires from August 1 through October 30, 2026, to prepare for expanding shortages.