El Nino causes scorchers in South Sumatra

Khairul Saleh, The Jakarta Post 28 Sep 09;

A local Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) blamed the current scorchers in Palembang on El Nino phenomenon.

Agus Santoso, a Palembang BMKG observation division head, said the daytime temperature had reached 34 degrees Celsius, higher than the normal days’ temperature of below 33 degrees.

"It happened before Ramadhan. We predict that the current weather will last through October," he said.

Meanwhile, South Sumatra forest fire management unit secretary, Ahmad Taufik said these scorchers would trigger forest fires.

"We can only hope more rain will fall to avoid widespread forest fires," he said.

Haze worsening in South Sumatra
Jakarta Post 28 Sep 09;

PALEMBANG: Haze blanketed almost all of Palembang and other regencies in South Sumatra on Sunday.

Strong winds spread the haze to Ogan Komering Ilir, Ogan Ilir and Banyuasin regencies. The haze also caused respiratory problems and poor visibility for motorists.

"The haze has been covering the city since the first day of Idul Fitri," Umar, a resident of North Indralaya, Ogan Ilir, said Sunday.

The haze mixed also blanketed roofs and windows of houses in several villages in the regency. - JP