Haze conditions in Kalimantan, Indonesia, have reportedly worsened as forest fires continue to spread, with thick smoke causing severely reduced visibility in several areas.
A social media user, @Frisimran_, shared footage showing the area covered in dense smoke, making nearby buildings and vehicles difficult to see clearly.
The user described the haze as among the worst they had witnessed, claiming visibility had dropped to around 20 metres.
“This is evidence of how severe the forest fires in Kalimantan are. You cannot clearly see even 20 metres ahead,” the user said.
Another social media user, @Miraidora.ujang, claimed the situation had continued to deteriorate, with hotspots reportedly detected across large parts of the island.
The user also claimed smoke from the fires had spread to other areas, including Malaysia, although such social media claims should be verified against official air-quality and fire-monitoring data.
“The fires in Kalimantan are getting worse. Almost the entire island has hotspots.
“The haze has spread across the island and towards Peninsular Malaysia. There are more than 800 hotspots in Kalimantan and the air pollution index has risen sharply,” the user claimed.
The thick smoke and ash were also said to have affected motorists, with poor visibility reportedly contributing to traffic congestion in some areas.
Wildlife has also been highlighted as among the victims of the forest fires, with the destruction of natural habitats putting animals at risk.
The worsening fires in Kalimantan have also been linked to deteriorating haze conditions in Sarawak, where cross-border smoke has affected air quality in several areas.
The Sarawak Education Department (JPNS) today ordered all schools under its jurisdiction in Kuching, Padawan, Serian and Samarahan to close for two days until tomorrow due to unhealthy haze conditions.
During the closure, schools have been instructed to conduct home-based teaching and learning (PdPR) to ensure students can continue their lessons.
Meanwhile, data from the Natural Resources and Environment Board Sarawak showed several areas recording unhealthy air pollution readings as of noon today, with Serian among the worst affected at 191.
Authorities continue to monitor air quality and haze conditions as fires in the region remain a concern.
