He explained that the heat, recorded by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), was intensified by Typhoon Wipha in the Philippines.
"Over the past 10 days, we've experienced extreme heat, and on top of that, Typhoon Wipha struck the Philippines, making cloud formation difficult and drying out the air — conditions that are highly flammable," Antoni said in a statement on Tuesday.
He urged residents in Riau to avoid land clearing or vegetation burning until at least July 28.
"BMKG data shows that from July 22 to 28, upper soil layers will be especially vulnerable to ignition," he said.
Antoni also warned that the government will strictly enforce laws against individuals or companies found guilty of starting fires.
"I've coordinated with the Riau Police Chief — no one should dare clear land by burning. The risks are extremely severe," he said.
"We will apply the law strictly and without exception, whether the culprits are individuals or corporations — in Riau, Sumatra, or anywhere else."
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that as of mid-July 2025, wildfires had affected 12 districts and cities in Riau.
Kampar and Bengkalis were the worst hit, with each reporting more than 100 hectares burned. Other affected areas included Rokan Hilir, Siak, and Indragiri Hilir, each with over 50 hectares of scorched land.
In the provincial capital Pekanbaru, fires burned 21.08 hectares — up 6 hectares from the previous week — and several hotspots remained active.
BNPB is working with the Riau Police, Armed Forces (TNI), and the regional fire task force to apprehend perpetrators and gather evidence from fire sites.
These efforts are supported by on-the-ground firefighting operations and the third phase of a weather modification program aimed at inducing rainfall to help extinguish fires and prevent haze.
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Translator: Arnidyha, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Anton Santoso
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