Bali Weather Alert: High Winds and Heavy Rains Forecast for Bali, Linked to Strengthening Storm System

DENPASAR, Bali — The Regional Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BBMKG) in Denpasar has issued a significant weather advisory for the island of Bali, warning of potentially damaging winds and periods of heavy rainfall from December 27 through December 29, 2025. The alert comes as a nearby tropical weather system shows signs of intensification, prompting authorities to urge residents and visitors to exercise heightened caution.

The forecast, detailed by BBMKG forecaster Diana Siregar and reported by Antara News Agency, predicts winds with significant speeds of 40 to 45 kilometers per hour (25 to 28 mph) across widespread areas. The advisory maps indicate that over the three-day period, the districts of Badung, Gianyar, Karangasem, Klungkung, Tabanan, and Denpasar City are repeatedly in the zone for potential strong gusts.

Concurrently, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected, particularly in central and eastern regions. On Saturday, December 27, the warning covers areas including Badung, Denpasar, Bangli, Buleleng, Jembrana, Karangasem, Tabanan, and Klungkung. The threat shifts but persists through Monday, December 29, focusing on the more mountainous regencies of Bangli, Buleleng, and Karangasem—areas historically prone to landslides and flash flooding during sustained downpours.

The Driving Force: A Developing Cyclone to the South

This severe weather pattern is directly influenced by Tropical Cyclone Seed 96S, located in the Indian Ocean south of West Nusa Tenggara. In a concerning update issued Friday evening, the BMKG revised its assessment, stating the system now has a “moderate chance” of developing into a full tropical cyclone within the next 24 hours.

“The presence of this cyclone seed can trigger increased wind speed, cloud formation for rain, and higher sea waves in the waters around Bali,” the agency stated. This clarifies that the island is experiencing the peripheral, yet potent, effects of a growing maritime storm, which is enhancing atmospheric instability across the region.

Critical Guidance for Bali’s Residents and Visitors

For Bali’s international community, this advisory necessitates practical adjustments and vigilance:

1. Travel Disruption Likely: High winds increase the risk of fallen trees, downed power lines, and flying debris. Travel by motorbike, especially on exposed coastal roads or in mountainous areas, should be minimized. Air and sea travel may also face delays.
2. Flood and Landslide Awareness: Those in low-lying areas, near rivers, or on hillsides should be alert for rapidly rising water and signs of earth movement. Avoid driving or walking through floodwaters.
3. Maritime Activity Extreme Caution: This land-based warning coincides with a separate, severe alert for high waves up to 4 meters in Bali’s straits and southern waters. All non-essential sea travel must be postponed.
4. Stay Informed: Weather conditions are dynamic. Follow updates from official BMKG channels and local news sources. Have a plan for potential brief power outages.

This multi-hazard warning—encompassing wind, rain, and sea state—underscores the interconnected nature of tropical weather systems. The situation serves as a timely reminder for both residents and the tourism industry to prioritize safety over schedule as the year-end holiday period reaches its peak. Preparations made now can significantly mitigate risk during this period of predicted severe weather.