KIÊN GIANG — Authorities in the southern province of Kiên Giang are on high alert for forest fires due to the combined effects of climate change and the El Nino phenomenon. Prolonged hot weather and low water levels in the region's forests have significantly increased the risk, particularly in U Minh Thượng National Park.

The province estimates that by early May, the entire forest area within the park will reach level IV and V fire warnings, classified as dangerous and extremely dangerous, respectively.

Nguyễn Văn Thắng, Deputy Director of U Minh Thượng National Park, stated that the park is committed to rigorously implementing its 2025 forest fire prevention and control plan. When the fire forecast reaches level IV, the park will activate a 24/7 duty roster with its full force, focusing on proactive detection, prevention, and rapid response to any fires. Patrols by specialized forest protection forces will also be intensified to deter illegal entry into the forest.

To mitigate the risk, authorities have instructed forest managers and related units to proactively construct dams to maintain water levels at least 10 cm higher than the average annual level. Furthermore, the Forest Protection and Development Management Department has organized five fire prevention and fighting teams, ensuring on-site personnel, vehicles, logistics, and command capabilities.

Since the beginning of the 2024-25 dry season, U Minh Thượng National Park has enhanced forest protection and fire prevention measures. These efforts include the deployment of SMART applications and the use of SMART Mobile software for forest protection patrols.

U Minh Thượng National Park, spanning over 8,500 hectares in Minh Thuận and An Minh Bắc communes within U Minh Thượng District, holds significant ecological importance. It is recognized as the fifth biosphere reserve in Vietnam by UNESCO and the eighth Ramsar site in the country.