Bali Tourists Urged to Heed Weather Warnings Following Recent Incidents
Bali, Indonesia – April 8, 2025: In the wake of multiple accidents involving tourists, authorities in Bali are advising visitors to carefully check weather forecasts and heed warnings about wave activity before embarking on day trips. The calls for caution come after a serious incident at Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, where strong currents led to the rescue of several tourists and their guide.
Tragic Incident at Kelingking Beach
On the morning of April 8, a couple from Australia, identified as NKM, and a tourist from Tanzania, KFH, along with their local guide, AYR, found themselves in distress as they attempted to navigate the treacherous waters off Kelingking Beach. The group had traveled from Nusa Lembongan on jet skis, hoping to reach the beach and capture iconic photographs from the clifftop.
According to AKP Agus Widiono, Head of Public Relations at Klungkung Police, the group was warned by their guide to approach the area with caution. However, as they attempted to maneuver the jet skis closer to the beach, they encountered unexpectedly strong currents and surging waves. This led to them capsizing, resulting in serious injuries as they were thrown against the cliffs and came into contact with the unanchored jet skis.
Despite the guide’s efforts to assist, he too was thrown off his jet ski by the powerful waves. Emergency services were quickly mobilized, and Bali Search and Rescue teams, along with police and community members, successfully evacuated the trio.
“They suffered severe injuries,” AKP Widiono stated. “The three victims experienced a collision with their jet skis, which ultimately caused them to be rolled by the incoming waves.”
The couple was airlifted at approximately 3:20 PM to BIMC Denpasar Hospital for medical care, while the guide was taken to a local clinic before being transferred to Gema Santhi Nusa Penida Hospital for further treatment.
Additional Tragedies Highlighting Safety Concerns
The incident at Kelingking Beach is not an isolated occurrence. Just days earlier, on April 6, a separate incident occurred when a tourist boat capsized near Tanjung Benoa. Fortunately, the tourists aboard were rescued, but tragically, the boat’s skipper, a 60-year-old local man, lost his life. Additionally, a Russian tourist sustained severe wounds after being struck by waves while attempting to take a photo on the rocks at Bias Tugel Beach.
These incidents have raised alarms among authorities and safety advocates. “The recent events stress the importance of vigilance among tourists,” said Iptu I Gede Sukadana, the Head of Public Relations of Karangasem Police. She confirmed that the injured tourist at Bias Tugel Beach was treated for various injuries, including a tear wound on the head and blister wounds on the thigh.
Weather Warnings Issued
Cahyo Nugroho, Head of the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency, has confirmed forecasts predicting high waves across southern Bali for the week ahead. The agency issued a statement advising fishermen, marine tourism operators, and the general public to be cautious as wind speeds and wave heights are expected to reach two meters or more.
Nugroho emphasized the need for all stakeholders to pay close attention to weather updates and adapt their plans accordingly. “It’s crucial for everyone, local governments, tourism operators, and the public, to remain informed about forecast changes,” he said.
Conclusion
As Bali continues to attract tourists from around the globe, the importance of prioritizing safety—particularly regarding boating and water activities—remains critical. Authorities urge all visitors to heed warnings, check the local weather conditions, and seek guidance from local experts before engaging in potentially hazardous activities, ensuring that their holiday remains a safe and enjoyable experience.
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