Heavy rain triggers multiple landslides in the Pupuan highlands, severing a vital link between Tabanan and Buleleng until late-night clearance efforts reopened the route.
TABANAN, Bali — A series of landslides triggered by intense rainfall on Thursday severed a critical mountain road in Bali’s Tabanan Regency for approximately six hours, disrupting travel between the island’s central and northern regions before authorities cleared the debris overnight.
The incident occurred around 5:00 PM local time on January 15, 2026, along the Antosari-Pupuan provincial road, a key artery connecting the Antosari area to Seririt in Buleleng Regency via the Pupuan highlands. According to Pupuan Police Chief AKP I Nengah Simpen, three separate slides from unstable hillside plantations blocked sections of the roadway.
“The Antosari-Pupuan route was temporarily impassable. The landslides have now been handled, and since 11:00 PM Thursday, the road has been passable,” Simpen confirmed on Friday, January 16.
Scale of the Landslides and Response
The affected areas were spread across two villages in Pupuan District:
- Batungsel Village: A 5-meter section of road was covered.
- Sanda Village: Two larger slides blocked 20-meter and 25-meter sections, with debris up to 2 meters thick in places.
The blockage forced traffic to be diverted to alternative routes for several hours. A joint team comprising police, military, the Tabanan Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), provincial public works crews, local village leaders, and community members mobilized for the clearance operation.
Pupuan District Head I Gusti Kade Dwipayana noted that cleanup in Batungsel concluded earlier, while work in Sanda required more effort, including the use of water sprays and a heavy loader. “The handling is now complete,” Dwipayana stated, adding that the main road was fully reopened in the early hours of Friday.
No Casualties, But Warnings Remain
Authorities confirmed there were no fatalities or injuries resulting from the landslides—a fortunate outcome given the scale of the slides. However, with rainfall intensity remaining high in the upland region, officials issued a caution.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant against the potential for subsequent disasters,” emphasized Dwipayana.
The incident highlights the susceptibility of Bali’s interior mountain roads to erosion and landslides during the peak rainy season, a recurring challenge that requires constant monitoring and rapid response to maintain connectivity and safety.
Travel Advisory During the West Season
For tourists and expatriates currently in Bali, this incident serves as a timely reminder to exercise increased caution during the current musim barat (west season) period. The island is experiencing heightened weather volatility, with intense rainfall leading to flash floods, landslides, and sudden road closures, particularly in central and northern regencies.
Travelers planning trips to mountainous areas, river valleys, or rural regions are advised to:
- Check real-time weather forecasts and road condition updates before departure.
- Allow extra travel time and avoid non-essential journeys during periods of heavy rainfall.
- Be prepared for sudden detours and follow instructions from local authorities.
- Avoid crossing flooded roads or fast-flowing waterways.
Staying informed and prioritizing safety is essential for navigating Bali’s beautiful but sometimes unpredictable landscapes during this season.
Hey Bali News provides updates on road conditions and regional events to assist residents and travelers in planning safe journeys across the island.