Indonesian authorities have closed access to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park as firefighters battle a wildfire. The blaze has burned for nearly one week.
The fire started Monday near Mount Bromo in East Java. Officials said flames have destroyed 176 hectares of land so far.
Authorities stopped visitors from entering the national park late Saturday. The closure will remain until officials determine conditions are safe.
National Disaster Mitigation Agency spokesman Abdul Muhari confirmed no injuries or property damage. However, firefighters continue efforts to contain the growing blaze.
Helicopters Join Effort To Control Wildfire
Two water-bombing helicopters are helping firefighters reach difficult areas. Steep slopes and strong winds have prevented crews from accessing some locations safely.
Muhari said aerial operations remain essential where ground teams cannot reach effectively. Therefore, helicopters are targeting flames across difficult and remote terrain.
Authorities continue monitoring the situation as dry conditions complicate firefighting efforts. Meanwhile, officials have urged visitors to avoid the affected national park.
The wildfire has renewed concerns about Indonesia’s growing fire risks. The country could face a more intense and prolonged dry season this year.
El Nino Raises Concerns Over Wildfires
Indonesia’s weather agency BMKG has warned about increased wildfire and drought risks. Officials partly attribute the expected conditions to the El Nino weather phenomenon.
El Nino changes global wind, air pressure, and rainfall patterns. It typically brings drier conditions to Southeast Asia and India.
Indonesia recorded more than 107,000 hectares of burned land during the first half. That figure exceeds twice the area destroyed during wildfires in 2023.
A previous blaze destroyed over 500 hectares around Mount Bromo in 2023. The fire started after a couple reportedly lit a flare during a pre-wedding photo shoot.
Authorities now face another challenge as firefighters battle the expanding blaze. Officials will continue aerial and ground operations until they control the fire.
