Denpasar, Bali — Holidaymakers and coastal communities across Bali are being urged to exercise increased caution as meteorologists have issued a marine weather warning for the island. The alert, which remains in effect from Sunday, 29 December 2025, through Thursday, 1 January 2026, forecasts waves of up to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet), posing a potential risk to maritime activities and beach safety.
The Regional Office for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) in Denpasar has highlighted several specific waterways where wave heights are predicted to reach between 1.25 and 2.5 meters, categorised as moderate to rough sea conditions.
The affected areas include:
- The southern Bali Strait
- The Badung Strait
- Waters south of Bali Island
- The northern and southern parts of the Lombok Strait
Risks to Maritime Activities and Safety Guidance
These conditions present a heightened risk, particularly for smaller vessels. The BMKG specifies that the conditions become hazardous for traditional fishing boats when wind speeds exceed 15 knots and waves reach 1.25 meters. For larger barges, the risk threshold is winds of 16 knots and waves of 1.5 meters.
Throughout the alert period, wind patterns are expected to shift from the southwest to the northwest over northern Bali waters and from the southwest to the west over southern waters, with speeds varying between 4 and 20 knots. The public is advised to be aware of potential sudden increases in wind speed.
Context and Implications for Bali’s Visitors and Residents
This seasonal warning comes during a peak period for tourism and coincides with recent severe weather events in the broader Indonesian archipelago, including a tragic ferry sinking in Komodo National Park linked to rough seas. While the forecast for Bali is less extreme, it underscores the dynamic and powerful nature of the region’s marine environment.
For the international community in Bali—expatriates, digital nomads, and tourists—this advisory calls for prudent adjustments:
- Beach and Ocean Safety: Swimmers, surfers, and beachgoers should heed local warnings, avoid entering the water during strong surf, and be extremely cautious of powerful rip currents, especially on southern beaches like Uluwatu, Dreamland, and Padang Padang.
- Maritime Travel Plans: Those considering day trips to neighbouring islands such as Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, or the Gili Islands should verify ferry schedules directly with operators, as services may be delayed or cancelled. Snorkelling and diving excursions may also be affected.
- General Preparedness: Staying informed via official sources like the BMKG website or app is crucial. The alert is a reminder that Bali’s idyllic coastal conditions can change rapidly, particularly during the transitional wet season.
Authorities emphasise that the alert is a standard precautionary measure for this time of year but stress that public vigilance is key to preventing accidents. By respecting the power of the ocean and adapting plans accordingly, residents and visitors can ensure their safety while enjoying Bali’s renowned coastal beauty during the holiday period.