Rain eases Indonesia's wildfire smoke but peat fires persist

On Oct. 27, 2026, brief rains across Indonesia reduced visible wildfires, but underground peat fires kept the region shrouded in toxic haze, Al Jazeera reported.

Why are peat fires difficult to extinguish?

Peat fires burn below the ground surface, making them invisible and resistant to conventional firefighting methods. The waterlogged peat layers can smolder for weeks, releasing large amounts of carbon and fine particulate matter even after rain has stopped.

What health risks does the haze pose?

The haze contains fine particles and toxic gases that can aggravate respiratory conditions, eye irritation, and cardiovascular problems. Health ministries in affected countries have warned vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, to limit outdoor activities during peak pollution days.

What actions are regional authorities taking?

Countries in Southeast Asia have activated emergency response plans, deploying aircraft and ground crews to target accessible fire fronts while monitoring air quality. Indonesia’s disaster agency has also called for increased funding to develop peat‑land restoration projects aimed at reducing future fire risk.

The current situation follows a pattern of seasonal fires that typically flare up during the dry months of July to October. While the recent rain offered a temporary lull, experts note that climate‑driven droughts and land‑use practices, such as illegal clearing of forested peat, exacerbate the problem. Long‑term solutions focus on rewetting peatlands, enforcing land‑use regulations, and regional cooperation under the ASEAN Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution, which seeks to curb cross‑border smoke.

Despite the short‑term relief, the lingering underground fires mean that air quality may remain poor for weeks, affecting millions across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and beyond. Continued monitoring and coordinated fire‑suppression efforts are essential to prevent the haze from becoming a prolonged public‑health crisis.