Increased fire incidents in Indonesia

Fire incidents in Indonesia have seen a significant rise, with South Tangerang recording 115 cases by mid-October 2026, nearly double the previous annual average of 68. Authorities attributed this increase partly to dry weather, noting that improper waste burning has become a primary driver for approximately 30 percent of these incidents.

By late October, specific landfill fires caused widespread concern. In Tangerang, the Rawa Kucing landfill experienced its second fire of the month on October 24. Officials suspect extreme heat and methane gas buildup as causes, while the Tangerang City Environmental Agency (DLH) is investigating the recurring nature of the incident, which has caused trauma for residents. To prevent future occurrences, the DLH has implemented 24-hour patrols, activated heavy machinery for night shifts, and prepared water tanks for rapid deployment.

In Malang, a fire at the Supit Urang landfill spread across more than 8 hectares, generating smoke that affected residential areas such as Dinoyo, Tlogomas, and Dau. In response, local authorities announced free medical services at health centers and the distribution of masks.

In Pati, Central Java, the Plosojenar waste disposal site caught fire on October 26. The Pati Environmental Agency suspects the blaze was triggered by embers from a September 23 fire that had not been fully extinguished, exacerbated by hot weather and wind. Firefighting efforts in Pati have faced challenges due to limited water supplies, as many government water tankers are being diverted to assist villages suffering from drought.