How haze from Indonesian fires impacts Southeast Asia

Indonesian wildfires have sent thick smoke drifting across Southeast Asia, causing respiratory issues, school closures, and deteriorating air quality in neighboring countries. The fires, primarily on Borneo and Sumatra, have burned over 300,000 hectares, emitting more than 23 million metric tons of carbon emissions in just a week, according to the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service.

El Niño drought and human land-clearing practices have exacerbated the situation, making the fires difficult to contain as they spread into peatlands, which become highly flammable when dry. More than 5 million people are exposed to health risks, with over 1.4 million students learning remotely due to poor air quality. Malaysia declared an emergency in part of Borneo, closing nearly 650 schools, while Singapore and the Philippines also experienced unhealthy air quality levels.