What BMKG climate data means for East Nusa Tenggara food security

Jakarta — The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) urged decision-makers to use climate information and weather forecasts to protect national food production and supplies on 26 October 2026, as a very strong El Niño continued to threaten water availability and farming conditions.

BMKG said the guidance was issued during a limited coordination meeting on food affairs in Jakarta. The agency said information on climate and forecasts should guide planting dates, water management and measures to protect food production.

BMKG reported that the Niño 3.4 index reached +3,05°C in August–October 2026, indicating a very strong El Niño. The agency also recorded a positive Indian Ocean Dipole, or IOD, of +0,63.

BMKG said the combination could extend dry conditions and worsen water constraints in some areas. It forecast that El Niño would persist until early 2027.

Why climate data matters for food security

The guidance matters to climate-sensitive agriculture because planting schedules, irrigation and harvest operations depend on the timing and availability of water. BMKG recommended matching planting calendars to regional seasonal forecasts, preparing irrigation networks and water reserves in areas still experiencing drought, and anticipating flooding or standing water in food-producing areas facing heavy rain.

The agency also said its updated weather and climate information should be used continuously. It cited weather-modification operations as an option where conditions and needs justify them.

BMKG said climate information can support decisions across different timescales, including daily forecasts, weekly and dekadal predictions, seasonal forecasts and longer-term climate projections. The agency has also described El Niño as a risk to food, water resources, energy, health, forests and economic activity.

For East Nusa Tenggara, the report provides a relevant official framework for agricultural planning, but the BMKG report does not state a separate province-specific measure or outcome for the region.

Sources

• BMKG — Indonesian government meteorology, climatology and geophysics agency
• cnbcindonesia.com