15 Oct 2019 | 10:59 AM UTC
Indonesia: Haze affects parts of Sumatra Island October 15
Haze due to ongoing fires affects part of Sumatra Island October 15; reported school closure and flight delays reported
Event
As of Tuesday, October 15, hazy conditions (dust, smoke, and vapor) have reduced visibility and have created health hazards in multiple provinces of Sumatra Island since Monday, October 14. The conditions have notably affected the South Sumatra province due to ongoing forest and agricultural fires. According to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (NDMA), around 1547 hotspots were reported, mostly in South Sumatra province.
Poor visibility has reportedly caused flight delays at Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II (PLM) airport in Palembang, where air quality has dropped to unhealthy levels in Palembang. An Air Pollution Index (API) of 173 was recorded at 12:00 (local time) on Tuesday, October 15. Most schools in the cities of Palembang and Jambi were asked to remain closed until Thursday, October 17. The order may be renewed later this week.
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 Sumatra Island 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 anticipate possible transportation disruptions.
