Indonesia intensified efforts to combat wildfires that have burned more than 107,000 hectares, deploying hundreds of firefighters and helicopters as blazes spread across the country during an unusually dry season.
The largest fire is burning in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, where about 743 hectares have been scorched. Authorities closed the popular tourist destination, including areas around Mount Bromo, until further notice. No injuries or evacuations have been reported.
Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago said cloud-seeding operations were unlikely to be possible through 18th of August because there were no suitable rain-bearing clouds. Firefighters are instead relying on water bombing and ground crews.
