Karhutla Kalimantan
In short
Ongoing forest and land fires in Kalimantan are causing severe air pollution, with thick smoke reaching as far as Makassar and affecting regional air quality. Local authorities in Central Kalimantan have declared an emergency response status to manage the crisis.
In plain words
Large fires in the forests and peatlands of Kalimantan are creating massive amounts of smoke. This smoke makes the air unhealthy to breathe and can travel across the sea to other cities and countries.
A simple example
Thick haze from the fires has reached Makassar, forcing the weather agency BMKG to advise residents to wear masks and stay indoors.
Why it matters
The fires cause significant health risks and environmental damage across Southeast Asia. They also create political tension regarding disaster funding and the movement of regional leaders during the crisis.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse these seasonal forest fires with controlled agricultural burning or small-scale bushfires.