Indonesia closes national park as wildfire spreads

Indonesian authorities have closed access to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park on Java Island amid a wildfire that has consumed over 176 hectares since it ignited on Monday near Mount Bromo. The park's closure came into effect late Saturday, with no reported injuries or property damage, according to a disaster official. Two water-bombing helicopters have been dispatched to combat the flames in hard-to-reach areas due to steep slopes and strong winds.

A similar blaze in 2023, sparked by a couple's flare during a pre-wedding photo shoot, destroyed more than 500 hectares of land. Indonesia anticipates an intensified and prolonged dry season this year, partly due to the El Nino weather phenomenon, which typically leads to drier conditions in Southeast Asia and India, exacerbating wildfire risks.