Dieng, IndonesiaSentinel.com — A natural phenomenon of frost reappeared in the Dieng Highlands as temperatures plunged to freezing levels. The air temperature dropped to 0 degrees Celsius, causing dew to freeze over the Arjuna Temple complex.
According to monitoring devices in Dieng, the temperature steadily fell since Sunday afternoon, September 15. The temperature had already dropped to 11 degrees Celsius. It continued to fall throughout the night, reaching 3.93 degrees. By 5:10 AM this morning, temperatures had hit 0 degrees Celsius, triggering the formation of frost. However, unlike previous occurrences, the frost this morning was relatively thin.
Frost is a common phenomenon in the Dieng Highlands between July and September, when temperatures in the region regularly drop due to clear skies and the high elevation. However, recent rainfall had prevented frost from forming in recent weeks.
The frost, often referred to as “frozen dew,” occurs when temperatures drop sharply overnight, causing the moisture in the air to freeze. Dieng’s high altitude, with over 2,000 meters above sea level, makes it particularly susceptible to such temperature fluctuations during the dry season. The lack of cloud cover at night allows heat to escape rapidly, resulting in freezing conditions by dawn.
The stunning sight of frost-covered landscapes has turned Dieng into a popular destination for tourists. Visitors flock to the Arjuna Temple complex, one of the key spots where the frost is most visible.
The frost is something people don’t usually see in tropical regions like Indonesia. Thus, seeing it like experiencing winter without leaving the country. Many travelers venture to the highlands in the early hours of the morning to capture the surreal scene of frozen dew glistening under the first rays of sunlight.
This surge in tourism brings a temporary economic boost to the area, as hotels and local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors.
Susi Pudjiastuti Expresses Disappointment Over Indonesia’s Decision to Resume Sea Sand Exports
While this natural phenomenon is a stunning sight for visitors, it poses a significant threat to local agriculture, particularly for potato farmers in the region. For the Dieng Highlands, which rely heavily on agriculture for their economy, especially potato farming, this frost presents a serious concern.
Potato farming suffers greatly whenever frost occurs. Freezing temperatures can damage crops by causing the water inside the plants to freeze, leading to cell rupture and the eventual death of the plant.
Farmers in the area often face reduced harvests during frost periods, leading to financial losses and food supply issues. Local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, but for many, the unpredictable nature of Dieng’s weather remains a constant challenge.
With the combination of tourist interest and agricultural damage, the frost phenomenon in Dieng presents challenges for the region. While the freezing temperatures bring in tourists and their economic benefits, they simultaneously destroy the livelihoods of farmers who depend on successful harvests. Local authorities are exploring ways to mitigate the damage to crops, but for now, the cold continues to be both a blessing and a curse.
(Raidi/Agung)
