Jakarta's Sweltering Heat: Unraveling the Mystery Behind the Region's Searing Summers
A recent explanation from Badan Meteorologi, Klimatologi, dan Geofisika (BMKG) has shed light on the peculiar phenomenon that plagues Jakarta and its surroundings during the summer months. The question on every resident's mind is: why does it feel like walking into a sauna in the capital city?
According to BMKG, the primary reason behind Jakarta's sweltering heat lies in its unique geography. Located at a relatively low elevation of approximately 10 meters above sea level, Jakarta experiences a phenomenon known as "heat island effect." This occurs when built-up urban areas absorb and retain heat from the sun, resulting in significantly higher temperatures compared to surrounding rural areas.
The city's dense population, sprawling concrete jungles, and lack of vegetation only exacerbate this issue. As a result, the urban heat island effect creates an environment where temperatures can soar as high as 38 degrees Celsius, making it feel like a scorching 40 degrees Celsius.
Another factor contributing to Jakarta's sizzling summers is its proximity to the equator. Located at a latitude of approximately 6 degrees south, the city receives direct sunlight throughout the year, resulting in intense solar radiation that heats up the urban landscape.
BMKG also notes that the region's coastal location and limited oceanic influence contribute to the extreme heat waves. Unlike cities with nearby bodies of water, Jakarta does not benefit from natural cooling mechanisms such as sea breezes or evaporative cooling. This means that the air remains stagnant, trapping heat and preventing any significant relief from cooler temperatures.
In conclusion, Jakarta's sweltering summers can be attributed to a combination of geographical, climatic, and human-induced factors. As the city continues to grow and expand, it is essential to implement strategies that mitigate the urban heat island effect, such as green infrastructure, efficient cooling systems, and sustainable urban planning. Only through collaborative efforts can we hope to reduce the impact of this phenomenon and create a more livable environment for the people of Jakarta.
A recent explanation from Badan Meteorologi, Klimatologi, dan Geofisika (BMKG) has shed light on the peculiar phenomenon that plagues Jakarta and its surroundings during the summer months. The question on every resident's mind is: why does it feel like walking into a sauna in the capital city?
According to BMKG, the primary reason behind Jakarta's sweltering heat lies in its unique geography. Located at a relatively low elevation of approximately 10 meters above sea level, Jakarta experiences a phenomenon known as "heat island effect." This occurs when built-up urban areas absorb and retain heat from the sun, resulting in significantly higher temperatures compared to surrounding rural areas.
The city's dense population, sprawling concrete jungles, and lack of vegetation only exacerbate this issue. As a result, the urban heat island effect creates an environment where temperatures can soar as high as 38 degrees Celsius, making it feel like a scorching 40 degrees Celsius.
Another factor contributing to Jakarta's sizzling summers is its proximity to the equator. Located at a latitude of approximately 6 degrees south, the city receives direct sunlight throughout the year, resulting in intense solar radiation that heats up the urban landscape.
BMKG also notes that the region's coastal location and limited oceanic influence contribute to the extreme heat waves. Unlike cities with nearby bodies of water, Jakarta does not benefit from natural cooling mechanisms such as sea breezes or evaporative cooling. This means that the air remains stagnant, trapping heat and preventing any significant relief from cooler temperatures.
In conclusion, Jakarta's sweltering summers can be attributed to a combination of geographical, climatic, and human-induced factors. As the city continues to grow and expand, it is essential to implement strategies that mitigate the urban heat island effect, such as green infrastructure, efficient cooling systems, and sustainable urban planning. Only through collaborative efforts can we hope to reduce the impact of this phenomenon and create a more livable environment for the people of Jakarta.