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Why Does Bandung Feel So Hot Lately? Four Key Factors Behind It
Bandung, a city long known for its cool climate, has been feeling noticeably hotter lately, with temperatures reaching above 32°C. According to the Bandung Class I BMKG (Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics), this is driven by a combination of factors: sparse cloud cover, high humidity, the seasonal transition, and the effects of urban growth.
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For many residents, sweltering afternoons have become an increasingly common complaint. The Bandung Class I BMKG points to four main factors behind the heat:
Sparse cloud cover. Clear skies allow solar radiation to reach the ground unobstructed, making UV rays feel especially intense.
Muggy conditions (ngelekeb). Known locally by the Sundanese term ngelekeb, the combination of high temperatures and high humidity traps heat, leaving the body feeling stuffy and uncomfortable.
Peak dry season and seasonal transition. Such conditions are normal in the lead-up to a change of seasons or at the height of the dry season.
The urban factor (Urban Heat Island). A growing number of settlements, shrinking green open spaces, and vehicle emissions have gradually raised Bandung’s average annual air temperature.
Think of the city as a car parked in direct sunlight with its windows shut: heat gets in easily but struggles to escape.
To stay comfortable during the hot spell, residents can take a few simple steps:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Wear a hat, carry an umbrella, or cover exposed skin when outdoors.
Limit direct sun exposure during midday hours.
This hot spell is a natural phenomenon amplified by changes in the urban environment. Understanding its causes helps us stay prepared, protect our health, and value the green spaces around us. For more news and updates, visit https://appftm.unjani.ac.id.
