Measuring the Results of Weather Modification Technology for Forest Fire Mitigation in Indonesia

Weather Modification Technology (WMT) is one of reliable solution that is often used in forest fire mitigation activity in Indonesia. Through the process of physically engineering clouds into rain and rewetting peatlands, it is hoped to help suppress hotspots and prevent forest fires from spreading. In this study, an analysis of forest fire mitigation activities in the area of Sumatra Island, Indonesia, shows that WMT can increase rainfall by up to 30% during its implementation period. WMT activity is also able to assist in suppressing the escalation of hotspots in the targeted areas. By increasing rainfall, WMT also plays a role in maintaining the wetness of peatlands, thus minimizing the potential for fire expansion. This study also explains that the role of the Indonesian Government in implementing WMT for forest fire mitigation continues to experience development.