Drought Threatens East Java Rice Fields, 28.3 Hectares Crop Failure

Drought is starting to press on agricultural land in East Java. The East Java provincial government has recorded 229.59 hectares of rice fields affected by drought from June to August 10, 2026, with 28.30 hectares of them experiencing puso or crop failure. The worst conditions occurred in Tulungagung with 20 hectares of puso land, followed by Lamongan 5 hectares and Magetan 3.20 hectares. East Java Vice Governor Emil Elestianto Dardak stressed that the government is not waiting for plants to completely die before acting. The provincial government is accelerating the mapping of affected and potentially drought-prone land, as well as preparing interventions such as the use of reservoirs, pumps, and bore wells. Areas like Bojonegoro, Lamongan, Tulungagung, and Trenggalek are of concern because of their potential to be affected. A number of farmers have adapted by planting varieties that are more drought-resistant, although their productivity is not as optimal as when water supply is sufficient. BMKG said the majority of East Java is entering the peak of the dry season in August 2026, increasing the risk of meteorological drought and a decline in agricultural productivity. https://kabarbaik.co/kekeringan-ancam-lahan-padi-jatim-283-hektare-gagal-panen/