Commentary: Indonesian El Niño fires offer lessons in resilience

Severe forest and peatland fires in Indonesia, exacerbated by El Niño-induced drought and land clearing practices, were experienced in 2006. These fires, combined with the grass-fire cycle, created widespread haze across Southeast Asia even during a weak El Niño year.

Local NGOs, such as Friends of Nature, People and Forests (FNPF), and community members, employed resourcefulness with tools like brooms, backpack pumps, and hoses to fight the fires. These events demonstrated the need for resilience and fortitude in firefighting efforts. Experts indicate a Super El Niño is currently anticipated, suggesting a repetition of past challenges.