Indonesia is battling underground peat fires early in the 2026 fire season.

A strengthening El Niño and severe drought have dried out wetlands, making them susceptible to prolonged smoldering. These slow-burning fires release more fine particles and pollutants than typical forest fires, exacerbating air quality issues and posing significant health risks.

The thick smoke from these underground fires makes detection difficult for satellites, complicating efforts to contain the blazes.

Long-term vulnerability includes increased soil degradation and a heightened risk of future fire seasons due to ongoing drought conditions.

What is the long-term climate outlook for this region?

The long-term outlook suggests more frequent severe droughts and El Niño events, increasing the likelihood of underground peat fires. This could lead to persistent air quality issues and health risks for residents.

Persistent challenges loom large.