Bali Experiences Over 65,000 Lightning Strikes Amid Severe Weather from Cyclone Seed 93S
December 16, 2025 — Bali is currently facing significant weather challenges as Cyclone Seed 93S brings intense storms and flooding to the island’s top tourism regions. According to the Bali Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), more than 65,000 lightning strikes were recorded between December 8 and 14, 2025, with widespread impacts on local communities and visitors.
Lightning Concentrated in Key Tourist Areas
The highest concentration of lightning strikes occurred in Tabanan Regency, a popular area famed for attractions such as Tanah Lot Temple and the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. During the four-day period, Tabanan recorded 19,112 lightning strikes. Badung Regency, home to renowned spots including Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, and Kuta, experienced nearly 6,000 strikes.
Ketut Sudiarta, Acting Head of BMKG Bali, confirmed the severity of the storm activity: “The most lightning strikes occurred in Tabanan Regency during that period.” Extreme weather warnings are currently in effect until at least December 18 and may be extended as the cyclone’s effects continue.
Flooding Disrupts Multiple Regencies and Tourism Operations
Aside from dangerous lightning, heavy rainfall induced by Cyclone Seed 93S has caused extensive flooding across the island. The Bali Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported that five of Bali’s nine regencies have been affected, including Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, Jembrana, and Karangasem.
BPBD Head Gede Agung Teja Bhusana Yadnya detailed recent flooding incidents: “We first experienced flooding in Karangasem, followed by Denpasar and Badung, and most recently in Gianyar and Jembrana. The threat remains for the coming days.”
In Denpasar, 20 flood points have been identified, while Badung Regency has 14, although this is fewer than flooding observed during September’s rainy season. Water levels in some affected areas have risen dramatically—from below knee height to waist level—leading to evacuations and damage to many homes.
Impact on Residents and Tourists
The extreme weather has led to evacuation efforts for both residents and tourists. Yadnya confirmed that 191 local families have been impacted, with at least 150 tourists needing to alter their travel plans. Many visitors were relocated to alternative accommodations, some checked out early, and others shortened their vacations in response to worsening conditions.
Urgent Warnings from Search and Rescue Officials
Bali’s Search and Rescue Agency, Barsarnas, has been actively responding to emergency calls caused by the storm. On December 15, Barsarnas successfully rescued two local fishermen whose traditional jukung boat capsized amid high waves.
Barsarnas Head Nyoman Sidakarya issued a serious advisory: “We strongly urge tourists and locals to avoid ocean activities, trekking, and other open-area ventures until January, as bad weather and hazardous conditions are expected to persist.”
Need for Improved Infrastructure and Preparedness
Officials have raised concerns about Bali’s current drainage and spatial planning capabilities to handle the ongoing rainy season, which typically lasts until March or April. “The environmental carrying capacity is not yet ready to properly manage heavy rainfall. Enhanced drainage system engineering is urgently needed,” said Yadnya.
Advice for Tourists and Residents
Tourists planning to visit Bali during this period are advised to:
- Monitor real-time weather updates via the official BMKG Instagram account.
- Avoid water-based activities and mountain treks while severe weather warnings are active.
- Ensure comprehensive travel insurance that covers natural disasters.
- Check with accommodations regarding their flood preparedness and drainage capabilities.
Outlook
With Cyclone Seed 93S continuing to impact Bali’s weather, residents and visitors alike should remain cautious and follow official advisories. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and prepared to respond as needed, but prolonged adverse weather may influence travel and safety for weeks to come.
This report will be updated as new information becomes available. Stay alert and prioritize safety if you are in or traveling to Bali during this period of extreme weather.
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