Forest and peat fires are an annual problem in Indonesia that strain relations with neighbours. (EPA PHOTO)Forest and peat fires are an annual problem in Indonesia that strain relations with neighbours. Strengthening El Niño conditions have raised the risk of more forest and land fires during the peak dry season, he said. Forest and peat fires are an annual problem in Indonesia that strain relations with neighbouring countries. In Singapore, authorities have warned that prevailing south-easterly winds could carry smoke toward the city-state, with dry conditions expected to prevail.