Indonesia: Further flight disruptions as haze continues in several provinces September 17 /update 4

Event

As of Tuesday, September 17, further flight disruptions have been reported in Riau and Jambi provinces (Sumatra island) as well as in all provinces of Indonesian Borneo. The disruptions have been ongoing since Friday, September 13, as visibility dropped below 300 m (0.19 mi) due to hazy conditions (dust, smoke, and vapor) caused by large-scale forest and agricultural fires ongoing in Sumatra and Borneo islands.

A total of 11 airports have been affected by the hazy conditions. The Indonesian national carrier, PT Garuda Indonesia, announced the cancelation of 15 flights through Thursday, September 19. Additional flight delays and cancelations are possible in the coming days.

As of Tuesday, two fatalities were reported in South Sumatra as a result. The government opened temporary clinics in the affected areas to treat the thousands of people suffering from acute respiratory illness (ISPA). Preschools and elementary schools in the cities of Pekambaru (Riau), Pontianak, and Kubu Raya (West Kalimandtan) were asked to remain closed until Thursday, September 19.

The ASEAN Specialized Meteorological Center (ASMC) has forecast hazy conditions to continue in the region in the coming days with fires in Sumatra and Borneo islands persisting under the prevailing dry weather.

Context

Indonesia frequently experiences air pollution (haze) caused by forest fires between June to October. An API reading of 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 moderate, and 101-200 unhealthy.

Advice

Individuals present in Indonesia are advised to monitor Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) updates and health advisories issued by the Indonesian Department of Environment. Seek medical assistance if needed and confirm flight reservations.