Bekasi Regency Government Enhances Readiness to Mitigate El Nino Impact

The Bekasi Regency Government in West Java, Indonesia, has heightened its preparedness efforts in anticipation of the El Nino phenomenon, which is predicted to bring about a longer and drier dry season than usual.

The local government has issued a circular, signed by the regional head, to serve as a preventative measure against the forthcoming dry season.

The Acting Regent of Bekasi, Asep Surya Atmaja, emphasized that all relevant district heads, enterprise leaders, sub-district heads, village heads, disaster risk reduction forums, communities, and disaster enthusiasts must deploy personnel to the field to conduct mitigation efforts and minimize the impact of this year's dry season.

He also called on all elements of society to increase their preparedness for various potential disasters that may occur during the dry season, particularly droughts and land fires.

According to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecast, rainfall during the dry season in most areas of West Java, including Bekasi Regency, is expected to be below normal or drier than average.

The peak of the dry season is predicted to occur between July and September 2026, although the duration this year is expected to be longer than usual.

The Head of the Bekasi Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Muchlis, urged the community to take preventative measures to minimize the impact of disasters caused by the dry season.

Residents are advised to conserve water, fix leaky water pipes, and not burn land, trash, or discard cigarette butts carelessly, as these actions can increase the risk of fires.

In terms of environmental management, residents are encouraged to preserve trees around their homes, participate in environmental conservation programs, maintain environmental cleanliness to prevent dust-borne diseases, and ensure access to clean water.

Regarding food security, the BPBD suggested that farmers adjust their planting patterns using drought-resistant crop varieties, schedule their planting, and optimize water management.

Residents are also advised to stay informed about weather updates to anticipate the development of the dry season and its potential impacts.

The BPBD has also set up a 24-hour emergency call center at 081219071900, which can be accessed by the public in case of emergencies.