Story perspectives

Indonesia wildfires burn 1.9 million hectares, schools shut

By Drooid · Oct 20, 2026, 3:39 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Indonesia's wildfires have burned more than 1.9 million hectares of forest and land.
The blazes have sent thick, toxic smoke across much of Southeast Asia.
The smoke forced public school closures in the most affected Indonesian provinces.
Respiratory illnesses have risen among residents as the smoke continues to spread.
France 24 environment editor Valerie Dekimpe reported the wildfire data to international audiences.

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Story summary

Indonesia's wildfires have burned more than 1.9 million hectares of forest and land.
The blazes have sent thick, toxic smoke across much of Southeast Asia.
The smoke forced public school closures in the most affected Indonesian provinces.
Respiratory illnesses have risen among residents as the smoke continues to spread.
France 24 environment editor Valerie Dekimpe reported the wildfire data to international audiences.