Indonesia is bracing for a potentially severe dry season this year, with climate researchers warning of a strong El Niño pattern, dubbed “Godzilla,” that is expected to bring prolonged drought conditions, particularly to the western and southern parts of the country.
Erma Yulihastin, a researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN)’s Center for Climate and Atmospheric Research, explained that the “Godzilla” El Niño is characterized by a significant warming of sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean.
“This condition causes the dry season in Indonesia to become longer and drier,” Erma wrote on her official Instagram account @brin_indonesia, as seen by Detikcom on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
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The situation is expected to be exacerbated by a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) event. The combination of these two phenomena will concentrate cloud formation and rainfall over the Pacific Ocean, whereas Indonesia experiences a lack of cloud cover and minimal precipitation.
Health Concerns Related to Extreme Heat
Beyond the environmental impacts, the intense heat associated with El Niño “Godzilla” as well poses serious risks to human health. According to Healthline, several medical issues related to hot weather should be monitored:
Migraines
Exposure to high temperatures and extreme humidity can trigger severe headaches. A 2023 study indicated that hot weather is a primary trigger for migraine attacks in thousands of people.
Heart Attacks
When ambient temperatures exceed normal body temperature, the heart must work harder and beat faster to circulate blood to the skin for cooling. This increased workload elevates the risk of fatality for individuals with heart conditions.
Stroke
Extreme heat puts significant strain on the vascular system. This risk is drastically increased in the elderly, especially those with a history of high blood pressure.
Heat Stroke
This is a medical emergency. Symptoms include changes in behavior, slurred speech, confusion, and seizures. If left untreated, heat stroke can be fatal.
Blood Pressure Issues
Hot temperatures can cause blood pressure to drop too low (due to fluid loss through sweat) or spike due to the body working hard to cool itself.
Severe Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when fluid loss through sweat exceeds fluid intake. Symptoms range from dry mouth and dizziness to a rapid heartbeat due to decreased blood volume.
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