The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast that Jakarta will remain sunny and partly cloudy all week. 

On its official website, the BMKG reported that Central Jakarta would be sunny, with temperatures of 24 to 33 degrees Celsius, and 60 to 85 percent humidity.

Other parts of the capital, including the southern, eastern, and northern ends are similarly forecast to be partly cloudy, with temperatures of 23 to 34 degrees Celsius, and 50 to 85 percent humidity. 

Previously, BMKG spokesman Harry Tirto said he expected this year’s dry season to be harsher than in 2018. 

A clean water crisis has begun to affect people in several parts of the capital as the dry season this year coincides with the El Niño phenomenon, which is known to prolong dry spells. 

Read also: Jakarta faces extreme drought amid prolonged dry season

In El Niño, the weather changes due to rising temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, which in Indonesia’s case can cause extreme drought. 

In addition to the hot weather, Jakarta’s air pollution has recently been in the spotlight because it is getting worse. The recent air pollution level has prompted a group of people to file a civil lawsuit against the government, pushing them to improve air quality. 

As part of an effort to raise public awareness on air pollution, the Jakarta administration has posted a video on its official Instagram page @dkijakarta, encouraging people to use public transportation to reduce carbon emissions during the dry season.

Jakarta was among the worst-polluted cities in Southeast Asia, according to World Health Organization data recorded from 2015 to 2016. (rfa)