From BBC News · · 1m 30s
Borneo's toxic haze crisis
Indonesian wildfires are choking Southeast Asia with toxic smoke, causing health emergencies and desperate pleas for rain.
In brief
Indonesian wildfires are choking Southeast Asia with toxic smoke, causing health emergencies and desperate pleas for rain. Indonesian wildfires have burned 1.9 million hectares since January, causing over 277,000 respiratory cases across Southeast Asia. Originally reported by BBC News.
Borneo's toxic haze

Indonesian wildfires have burned 1.9 million hectares since January, creating toxic smoke that blankets southeast asia.
Health crisis deepens

Over 277,000 people in southeast asia have suffered respiratory issues, including 62,000 infants under five.
Mother's fear

Dianyra Eka Nastiti worries her child's cough could worsen, fearing hospitalization after a month and a half old.
“Sometimes at night my baby's chest makes a rattling sound”
Peat fires threaten health

Toxic smoke from peat fires contains microparticles that cause lung inflammation and increased risk of premature death.
Government response
Indonesia deployed 60,000 personnel claiming 80% success in extinguishing new fires through land operations.
Firefighters' struggle
Firefighters face water shortages as peatland fires require months to extinguish, unlike regular land fires.
New fire zones

Fires are spreading into areas with no history of fire, creating unprecedented environmental damage.
Desperate plea for rain
Residents hope for heavy rain to extinguish fires, as drought conditions worsen the crisis.
Health risks
Children, older adults, and pregnant women face heightened health risks from prolonged exposure to toxic smoke.
Community resilience

Residents endure harsh conditions, balancing work, health, and family needs despite government warnings to stay indoors.
At a glance
Indonesian wildfires have burned 1.9 million hectares since January, causing over 277,000 respiratory cases across Southeast Asia.





