The BMKG forecasts waves up to 4 meters in the Bali Strait and southern Lombok Strait from January 21-24, posing risks to ferries, fishermen, and coastal communities.
DENPASAR, Bali — Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for potentially hazardous sea conditions around Bali, forecasting waves as high as four meters in key straits from January 21 to 24, 2026. The alert urges heightened caution for all maritime activities, including ferry crossings, fishing, and coastal tourism.
The warning, issued by the BMKG’s Region III office in Denpasar on Tuesday, January 20, anticipates strong southwesterly to northwesterly winds reaching speeds of up to 30 knots (approximately 55 km/h) over the northern and southern waters of Bali. This consistent, high-speed wind is the primary driver behind the predicted swell.
“Be aware of the potential for strong winds in the northern and southern waters of Bali,” said Cahyo Nugroho, Head of BBMKG Region III Denpasar, as quoted by Antara.
Areas of Highest Risk
The agency predicts the most severe conditions, with waves reaching 2.5 to 4 meters, will occur in:
- The southern part of the Bali Strait
- The Badung Strait
- The southern part of the Lombok Strait
- Waters south of Bali
Waves in the northern Bali waters and northern Lombok Strait are forecast to be slightly lower but still significant, reaching up to 2.5 meters.
Impact on Key Ferry Crossings
The warning has direct implications for vital passenger and vehicle ferry routes. On January 20-21, waves on crossings from Padangbai, Sanur, and Kusamba to Nusa Penida are predicted to reach 2.5 meters, with wind speeds up to 25 knots and rainy conditions, potentially causing delays or cancellations.
Similarly, the route from Padangbai in Karangasem to Lembar in West Nusa Tenggara (Lombok) may also face 2.5-meter waves and winds up to 30 knots.
Safety Thresholds and Public Advisory
Cahyo Nugroho explained that the combination of high winds and waves increases risks for vessel stability, visibility, and maneuverability, particularly for smaller craft. The BMKG advises different vessel operators based on specific thresholds:
- Fishermen should exercise caution with winds over 15 knots and waves above 1.25 meters.
- Barge operators are advised to be wary with winds reaching 16 knots and waves around 1.5 meters.
- Ferry operators should increase vigilance when winds hit 21 knots and waves reach 2.5 meters.
The agency strongly urges coastal communities, fishermen, and maritime tourism operators to closely monitor updated weather bulletins and consider postponing non-essential voyages during this period. Safety, it emphasizes, must be the paramount concern.
Hey Bali News provides official weather advisories to help the community and visitors make informed decisions for their safety and travel plans.