Bali, Indonesia – A significant weather system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall across large swaths of Indonesia starting Monday, February 2, 2026, with the islands of Java, Bali, and Sumatra placed under heightened alert. The national meteorological agency, BMKG (Badan Meteorologi, Klimatologi, dan Geofisika), has issued an early warning for potential hydrometeorological disasters.
Residents and travelers in Bali and key tourism regions are urged to exercise caution and closely monitor official updates in the coming days.
Regions on High Alert for Intense Rainfall
According to the latest BMKG forecast, several provinces face the prospect of severe downpours. The primary regions under the “very heavy rain” warning include:
- Sumatra: Aceh, Bengkulu, Lampung, South Sumatra, North Sumatra, and the Bangka Belitung Islands.
- Java: West Java, Central Java, East Java, and the Special Region of Yogyakarta.
- Bali & Nusa Tenggara: Bali and West Nusa Tenggara (NTB).
This weather pattern elevates the risk of flash floods, landslides, and fallen trees, particularly in areas with steep topography or inadequate drainage. Authorities advise the public to remain vigilant.
Detailed National Forecast: Widespread Disruption Expected
Beyond the core alert zone, the BMKG has mapped a broad area of Indonesia expecting moderate to heavy rainfall, indicating a widespread and potent weather event. Key regional breakdowns include:
- Java and Banten: The greater Jakarta metropolitan area (DKI Jakarta) and Banten are forecast to experience moderate to heavy rain, necessitating vigilance for urban flooding.
- Sumatra: Jambi and West Sumatra also anticipate moderate to heavy rain. Special wind warnings are in effect for Aceh and the Bangka Belitung Islands.
- Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT): The province is set for moderate to heavy rain accompanied by the potential for strong winds.
- Other Regions: Similar conditions are predicted across Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Maluku, and Papua, with specific wind warnings noted for Maluku and West Sulawesi.
Implications for Bali and Travelers
For Bali, the warning underscores the island’s current vulnerability to intense seasonal weather. Expatriates, tourists, and residents should anticipate possible disruptions to outdoor activities, travel, and local services. Road conditions, especially in rural or coastal areas, may deteriorate rapidly.
The BMKG specifically advises those engaged in outdoor work or travel to continuously check weather developments. The forecast for strong winds in several regions, including nearby NTT, also requires extra attention for sea and land transportation, potentially affecting ferry schedules and inter-island travel plans.
A Call for Preparedness
As the archipelago braces for this major weather event, the BMKG’s alert serves as a critical reminder of the dynamic climate in the region. For the communities in Java, Bali, and Sumatra directly in the storm’s path, proactive measures—such as securing property, avoiding flood-prone areas, and heeding local government guidance—are strongly recommended to mitigate risks to life and property.
