A dense orange smog has blanketed Palangka Raya, Indonesia, as hazardous air pollution levels spike due to ongoing wildfires.
A thick orange haze now covers the city of Palangka Raya in Indonesia. This heavy smog creates dangerous conditions for everyone living in the region.
Witnesses recorded videos of the thick clouds moving across Kalimantan. These scenes occurred near active wildfire sites in the area.
Data from the environment ministry shows very high pollution levels. The index reached over 1,200 on Wednesday.
This number is four times higher than the limit for hazardous air. The official hazardous level begins at 300.
Meanwhile, toxic smog affects millions of people across the region. Residents in Singapore and Malaysia also face poor air quality.
Authorities point to specific farming practices for the disaster. They blame the slash and burn method for the intense smoke.
Farmers often use this clearing method to prepare land for crops. However, the resulting fires release massive amounts of toxic smoke.
As a result, the air remains unsafe for large groups of people. The smoke travels across borders to nearby countries as well.
Next, officials must manage the spread of these dangerous fires. They need to stop the clearing methods that cause the haze.
Finally, the public must take precautions against the poor air. Experts warn that the situation remains very serious for everyone involved.