The national weather agency warns of heavy rain, flooding risks, and dangerous waves across every regency, urging residents and visitors to take precautions.
DENPASAR, Bali — Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a severe weather advisory for the entire island of Bali, in effect from January 21 to 27, 2026. The agency forecasts a week of intense atmospheric activity likely to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and hazardous sea conditions to all regions.
Cahyo Nugroho, Head of BMKG Region III Denpasar, cited significant atmospheric disturbances as the cause.
“We have identified significant developments in atmospheric dynamics,” Nugroho stated, as reported by Antara. This is driven by an active Asian monsoon and converging wind patterns over the island, which combine to create ideal conditions for sustained, heavy precipitation.
Regencies at Risk: An Island-Wide Phenomenon
Unlike localized storms, this weather system is expected to impact the entirety of Bali. The BMKG specifically lists the following regencies and city as areas with high potential for moderate to heavy rainfall and associated hazards:
- Badung
- Denpasar City
- Tabanan
- Jembrana
- Bangli
- Gianyar
- Karangasem
- Klungkung
- Buleleng
This widespread rainfall significantly elevates the risk of hydro-meteorological disasters, including flash floods, river overflows, and landslides, particularly in vulnerable, low-lying, or mountainous areas.
Dangerous Maritime Conditions
The severe weather extends to Bali’s coastal waters. The agency forecasts:
- Waves up to 2.5 meters in the northern Bali waters and northern Lombok Strait.
- Dangerous waves reaching up to 4 meters in the southern Bali waters, southern Bali Strait, Badung Strait, and southern Lombok Strait.
These conditions pose a serious threat to maritime safety, impacting ferry services, fishing, and all marine tourism activities.
Critical Safety Advisory for Tourists and Expatriates
For the international community and visitors in Bali, this island-wide alert necessitates heightened caution and adjusted plans.
For All Travel and Daily Activities:
- Check Conditions: Before heading out, check real-time weather updates from the BMKG and local road conditions. Google Maps or Waze can show active flooding reports.
- Avoid Flood Waters: Never attempt to walk or drive through flooded streets. Water depth and current strength can be deceptive and dangerous.
- Landslide Caution: If traveling in rural or mountainous areas (e.g., around Kintamani, Bedugul, or coastal cliffs), be aware of landslide risks, especially during or after heavy rain.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Secure or bring inside any loose objects on balconies or in gardens that could become projectiles in strong winds.
For Coastal and Marine Activities:
- Heed Marine Warnings: Postpone all non-essential sea travel, including trips to Nusa Penida/Lembongan, diving, snorkeling, and surfing. Ferry services may be delayed or cancelled.
- Beach Safety: Avoid beach activities during storm surges and high waves. Strong rip currents can be fatal.
For Residents and Long-Term Visitors:
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Have a kit ready with essentials like drinking water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, and important documents.
- Know Your Area: Identify if your accommodation is in a flood-prone zone or near unstable slopes.
- Stay Informed: Follow official updates from BMKG and local disaster management agencies (BPBD).
The agency urges everyone to prioritize safety, allowing extra time for travel and remaining flexible with itineraries during this period of volatile weather.
Hey Bali News provides official advisories and practical guidance to help our community navigate safety during severe weather conditions.