Indonesia's Peat Fires Surge Amidst Severe Drought and El Niño

Dangerous peat fires are surging in Indonesia due to a strengthening El Niño and severe drought, drying out wetlands and leading to underground fires that can burn for months. These fires are highly destructive, releasing significant fine particles and pollutants. By September 2, 2026, the fires had already released approximately 10% of the greenhouse gas emissions seen during the 2015 crisis.