Air Pollution-Related Deaths in Indonesia Surge 42% in September Amid Widespread Fires

Air pollution-related deaths in Indonesia rose to an estimated 5,310 in September 2026, a 42% increase from August, as widespread forest and land fires worsened air quality and exposed millions of people to harmful pollution.

Air pollution-related deaths in Indonesia increased sharply in September, largely driven by widespread forest and land fires, according to a report from the Helsinki-based Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA).

As reported by Xinhua News Agency, the research organization estimated approximately 5,310 deaths associated with air pollution in September, compared with 3,740 in August, representing a 42% increase.

The findings highlight the growing public health consequences of wildfire smoke, particularly in regions affected by prolonged dry conditions and extensive land fires.

Forest and Land Fires Drive Sharp Increase in Deaths

According to CREA, smoke from forest and land fires accounted for approximately 3,560 estimated deaths in September, roughly double the estimated figure recorded in August.

Meanwhile, pollution from urban and industrial sources, which continued independently of the fires, was associated with another 1,750 deaths.

The figures demonstrate how seasonal fire related pollution can add substantially to the existing health burden caused by emissions from transportation, industry, and other urban activities.

Estimated Air Pollution-Related Deaths in Indonesia

Indicator	Estimated Deaths
August 2026 – All air pollution sources	3,740
September 2026 – All air pollution sources	5,310
September – Forest and land fire pollution	3,560
September – Urban and industrial pollution	1,750

Overall increase from August to September: 42%

These figures represent research-based estimates of deaths attributable to air pollution, rather than individually confirmed deaths directly recorded as being caused by smoke exposure.

Kalimantan and Sumatra Face Severe Health Impacts from Wildfire Smoke

The report identified significant regional differences in the sources of air pollution-related mortality.

In four provinces on the island of Kalimantan, smoke from forest and land fires was estimated to account for 94 - 99% of air pollution-related deaths.

In several provinces on Sumatra, wildfire smoke was responsible for more than 80% of estimated air pollution-related deaths.

By comparison, most air pollution-related deaths on the island of Java were associated with persistent urban and industrial pollution rather than fire-related smoke.

These findings suggest that communities in Kalimantan and Sumatra experienced a disproportionately high health burden from wildfire smoke compared with urban populations in Java.

Nearly 58 Million Indonesians Exposed to Unhealthy Air Quality

The health consequences of Indonesia's air pollution extended far beyond estimated mortality.

CREA reported that approximately 57.8 million people were exposed to air quality classified as either "unhealthy" or "hazardous" during September.

Exposure to polluted air can increase the risk of respiratory symptoms and worsen existing health conditions, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Fine particulate matter, commonly known as PM2.5, is especially concerning because these tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and contribute to cardiovascular and respiratory health problems.

Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with existing heart or lung conditions may face increased health risks during periods of severe air pollution.

More Than 333,000 Acute Respiratory Infection Cases Reported

According to data from Indonesia's Ministry of Health, 333,470 cases of acute respiratory infections associated with forest and land fires had been reported across several affected areas as of October 21, 2026.

The figure highlights the substantial pressure that prolonged smoke exposure can place on communities and healthcare systems.

Common symptoms associated with exposure to polluted air may include coughing, throat irritation, breathing difficulties, and worsening asthma symptoms.

However, respiratory infections can have multiple causes, and the reported cases should not be interpreted as proof that smoke exposure directly caused every individual infection.

El Niño Related Drought Intensifies Fire Risks

The report attributed much of the increase in air pollution-related mortality to drought conditions associated with El Niño, which contributed to more severe forest and land fires.

Dry conditions can increase the likelihood that vegetation and peatlands will ignite and allow fires to spread more rapidly.

Peatland fires are particularly challenging because they can burn underground and produce substantial smoke over extended periods.

Researchers called for stronger preventive measures to reduce the frequency and severity of fires.

Recommended priorities included improving fire prevention, restoring degraded peatlands, and strengthening enforcement against illegal land clearing.

Why Air Pollution Is a Serious Public Health Concern

Air pollution is not only an environmental issue but also a major public health challenge.

Exposure to fine particulate matter and other pollutants is associated with increased risks of several health conditions, including:

• Respiratory irritation and worsening asthma

• Chronic respiratory disease

• Cardiovascular disease

• Stroke

• Reduced lung function

• Premature mortality

The severity of these risks depends on factors such as pollution concentration, duration of exposure, and individual health status.

During severe haze episodes, public health measures that reduce exposure can help protect vulnerable populations.

How to Reduce Health Risks During Severe Air Pollution

People living in or traveling to areas affected by wildfire smoke can take several practical precautions.

Monitor local air quality. Check official air quality information and public health advisories before planning outdoor activities.

Limit outdoor exposure. Reduce strenuous outdoor activities when air pollution reaches unhealthy levels.

Use appropriate respiratory protection. A properly fitted N95 or equivalent particulate respirator can help reduce exposure to airborne particles when outdoor exposure is unavoidable.

Improve indoor air quality. Keep windows closed when outdoor smoke levels are high and consider using suitable air filtration systems.

Seek medical attention when necessary. People experiencing significant breathing difficulties, chest pain, or worsening respiratory symptoms should seek prompt medical evaluation.

Stronger Environmental Protection Is Essential for Public Health

Indonesia's September air pollution figures illustrate how environmental conditions, land management practices, and public health are closely connected.

While urban and industrial emissions remain ongoing concerns, widespread forest and land fires can cause additional and substantial health impacts within a relatively short period.

The findings reinforce the importance of coordinated action involving environmental authorities, healthcare agencies, local communities, and policymakers.

Preventing fires, restoring peatlands, strengthening environmental enforcement, and improving air quality monitoring could help reduce future health risks.

Conclusion: Indonesia's Air Pollution Crisis Highlights the Human Cost of Wildfires

The estimated 42% increase in air pollution-related deaths in September 2026 underscores the serious consequences of widespread forest and land fires in Indonesia.

With approximately 5,310 estimated deaths, 57.8 million people exposed to unhealthy or hazardous air quality, and hundreds of thousands of reported respiratory infections in affected areas, the findings point to a significant public health challenge.

Researchers emphasized that stronger fire prevention, peatland restoration, and enforcement against illegal land clearing are essential to reducing future pollution-related harm.

Protecting air quality is not only about preserving the environment. It is also about protecting human health and preventing avoidable illness and premature death.

 

Source : Xinhua News Agency  Air Pollution-Related Deaths in Indonesia Rise 42% in September