Indonesia battles growing wildfires as Mount Bromo blaze spreads

Indonesia is ramping up efforts to tackle a surge in wildfires across the country, with officials deploying helicopters, thousands of firefighters, and disaster personnel. The blazes have engulfed over 107,000 hectares (264,000 acres) of forests and land, according to Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago.

The largest fire is burning in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java, where more than 743 hectares (1,836 acres) have been destroyed. Authorities have closed the park to visitors. Strong El Nino conditions have heightened the risk of more fires during the peak dry season. Cloud-seeding operations, which could help induce rainfall, were not possible due to unfavorable weather conditions.

Efforts are now focused on water bombing and ground firefighting teams. Wildfires have also spread to peatlands in Sumatra and Borneo islands, causing choking haze and air quality concerns.