Way Kambas Forest Fires Spread Across 600 Hectares, Hampering Firefighting Efforts 

Lampung: Forest and land fires have swept through Way Kambas National Park in East Lampung, Lampung, since Tuesday 22 September 2026.

Acting Head of the Data, Information and Disaster Communication Center at the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), Berton SP Panjaitan, said the fire broke out in the RPTN area of SPTN Region II Bungur. The affected area is estimated at around 600 hectares.

“The response efforts as of Thursday, September 24, faced challenges including difficult access to the site, limited water sources, and the considerable distance between the fire hotspots and available water sources,” Berton said in a written statement on Friday 25 September 2026.

A joint team continues to carry out firefighting efforts in the affected area. Personnel are using hand tools and jet shooters to extinguish the flames.

“Further response efforts have been reinforced through direct firefighting using portable pumps and jet shooters, as well as indirect measures by creating firebreaks,” Berton explained.

The BNPB urged the public to remain vigilant against potential fires, particularly in areas experiencing dry conditions. People are also advised not to burn waste or clear land by using fire.

BNPB explained that unattended burning can spread rapidly when vegetation is dry. The risk increases further in the presence of strong winds. 

“The public is also urged to immediately report any fire hotspots they find so they can be dealt with at an early stage,” Berton said.

The public is also urged to remain calm, avoid activities that could trigger fires, and immediately contact local authorities or disaster response services if they encounter potentially hazardous conditions.

(Razaqa Hariz)