RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has revealed the cause of the extreme hot weather that hit the Jakarta area on Sunday, March 15, 2026. This phenomenon caused the air temperature to feel much hotter and more humid than previous days due to intense solar exposure.

BMKG Senior Forecaster, Riefda Novikarany, conveyed that this condition was triggered by the lack of cloud cover during the day. This allowed solar radiation to reach the earth's surface directly without obstruction, leading to a significant increase in air temperature.

Riefda added that the apparent movement of the sun, which is currently near the equator, is a major meteorological factor in March. This condition is common during the transition period (pancaroba), where the sky tends to be clear during the day with strong maximum heating.

“The hotter air temperature is generally influenced by reduced cloud cover, which allows solar radiation to be received optimally by the surface, as well as relatively weak wind speeds that prevent effective air circulation,” Riefda said when contacted by Voice of Indonesia on Monday, March 16, 2026.

In addition to atmospheric factors, BMKG highlighted the characteristics of urban areas like Jakarta, which are dominated by concrete surfaces and asphalt roads. These materials have the property of absorbing and retaining heat longer, creating a higher sense of humidity for people in the capital.

“In urban areas like Jakarta, the abundance of concrete and asphalt surfaces also contributes to absorbing and storing heat longer, making the temperature feel more humid than surrounding areas,” Riefda stated.

In response to this phenomenon, BMKG urges the public to maintain body hydration and limit outdoor activities during the day to avoid excessive heat exposure. Citizens are also advised to continue monitoring the latest weather information, as the transition period is often followed by rapid and extreme weather changes.