Bali Braces for Extreme Weather: Strong Winds and Heavy Rainfall Expected
This weekend, the tropical paradise of Bali has been significantly impacted by extreme weather conditions, raising concerns for both residents and visitors. Wind speeds exceeding 74 km/h have been recorded across the island, with forecasts indicating the continuation of strong winds and heavy rainfall throughout the week. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency for Bali (BMKG Bali) has issued urgent weather warnings for the entire province, advising the public and tourists to exercise caution from now until at least February 12, with potential extensions if conditions worsen.
Tropical Cyclone Seeding 96S
The BMKG Bali has provided critical updates regarding the current weather situation, noting the influence of Tropical Cyclone Seeding 96S. This system is located to the south of East Nusa Tenggara, in the Indian Ocean, west of Western Australia. The agency reports that gale-force winds have been observed northwest of the cyclone, which is indirectly causing moderate to heavy rainfall in Bali and the surrounding East Nusa Tenggara region.
As a result, the BMKG has advised that the islands of Lombok and the Gili Islands, along with Bali’s smaller islands such as Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, are also experiencing adverse weather conditions. The ongoing rainy season is being amplified by the convective activity associated with the cyclone, leading to increased wind speeds and sea wave heights, particularly affecting Southern Bali.
Safety Advisory and Impact Reports
According to reports from the BMKG Bali, as of February 9, 2025, the maximum wind speed recorded at the Ngurah Rai Meteorological Station reached 38 knots (approximately 70 km/h). Ocean conditions are perilous as well, with wave heights in Southern Bali waters ranging between 1 and 3.5 meters, a situation that is expected to persist for the following days.
In light of the severe weather, the agency has disseminated essential safety advice. Residents and tourists are urged to exercise caution when engaging in outdoor activities, particularly when riding motorcycles, to avoid hazards such as falling trees and collapsing power poles. Tourists planning to visit Southern Bali beaches—including popular spots such as Nusa Dua Beach, Kuta Beach, Melasti Beach, and Uluwatu Beach—are advised to remain close to shorelines and refrain from swimming.
Response to Weather-Related Incidents
In response to the extreme weather, the Bali Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has been actively managing the situation across all nine regencies in Bali. Secretary of the BPBD for Bali, Gede Teja, reported that authorities are currently addressing 19 significant tree-fall incidents and one landslide, resulting in three fatalities and six injuries, with damage estimated at IDR 515 million.
Teja emphasized the importance of public cooperation in maintaining safety, urging individuals to remain vigilant and report hazardous conditions. As conditions evolve, tourists are encouraged to stay updated on weather advisories through the BMKG Bali’s official channels, including their Instagram account.
Travel Precautions
For those planning to travel between Bali and nearby islands such as Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Lombok, checking with ferry and fast boat providers is strongly recommended. Travelers should be prepared for possible last-minute changes to scheduling and routes due to the inclement weather, as several crossings may be canceled or postponed until winds subside.
Conclusion
As Bali contends with these extreme weather conditions, both locals and visitors are advised to remain informed and prioritize safety. At this moment, vigilance and caution are paramount as the island navigates the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Seeding 96S and the ongoing rainy season.
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