Jakarta. The Jakarta provincial government is stepping up its response to extreme heat, launching weather modification efforts, accelerating tree-planting programs, and warning residents to limit outdoor activity as temperatures in the capital hit 35 degrees Celsius this week.

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) warned that the country’s ongoing heatwave, with temperatures soaring to as high as 37.6 degrees Celsius, is expected to persist until the end of October or early November 2025.

According to BMKG’s latest observations, maximum temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius have been recorded across much of the country. The highest readings over the past week came from Majalengka in West Java and Boven Digoel in Papua, both hitting 37.6 degrees Celsius. Other hotspots included Kupang in East Nusa Tenggara and Kapuas Hulu in West Kalimantan, where temperatures reached 36.8 degrees Celsius.

BMKG reported that Jakarta’s daily temperature range reached between 26 and 34 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, with the heatwave driven by the sun’s apparent motion and the influence of the Australian Monsoon.

Governor Pramono Anung has instructed all regional agencies to implement coordinated measures to protect residents from the impact of extreme weather.

“The Jakarta government is serious about addressing the effects of this extreme heat,” said Chico Hakim, special staff to the governor, on Thursday. “Governor Pramono has directed relevant agencies to act based on data-driven steps --from weather modification to public education-- to ensure the comfort and health of Jakarta residents.”

Under the governor’s directive, the Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) will continue and expand its weather modification operations (OMC) in collaboration with BMKG to regulate rainfall and help lower surface temperatures.

The Health Agency has been tasked with boosting readiness at hospitals and clinics to handle cases of dehydration, heatstroke, and respiratory infections. It will also lead a public education campaign encouraging residents to stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid outdoor activities during peak hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Meanwhile, the Parks and Urban Forest Agency and the Environmental Agency will accelerate tree-planting efforts to reduce the urban heat island effect and strengthen drainage systems to prevent flooding during sudden rains. The government also plans to enhance public awareness through community groups, pedestrians, and cyclists, while promoting the development of eco-friendly transit systems to cut long-term vehicle emissions.

Authorities urged residents to stay alert and follow official weather updates from BMKG. The public can report emergencies by calling 112 or access real-time information through the JAKI app, the city’s official website, and its social media account @DKIJakarta.

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