Six Dead as Severe Flooding Disrupts Bali, International Airport Inundated
The Indonesian holiday island of Bali has been struck by severe flooding following continuous heavy rainfall from Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning. The deluge has resulted in the deaths of at least six people, forced the evacuation of dozens, and caused significant disruptions to transportation and local infrastructure.
Fatalities and Damage
Authorities reported that four people died when two buildings collapsed in Denpasar, the island’s capital, due to the intense downpour. Additionally, two more fatalities occurred in the Jembrana region, where heavy rains also prompted the evacuation of 85 residents for safety.
The widespread flooding has rendered major roads impassable, complicating rescue efforts and restricting access to vital areas. I Nyoman Sidakarya, head of Bali’s search and rescue agency, stated that road conditions have deteriorated to the point that only trucks are able to traverse the routes to the island’s international airport near Denpasar, severely limiting mobility for travelers and emergency services alike.
Impact on Tourists and Infrastructure
Social media videos circulating online depict floods inundating major roadways, leading to extensive traffic gridlock. Vehicles have been seen overturned and submerged in floodwaters, highlighting the severity of the situation on the island.
An Australian resident living in Legian, a tourist hub north of Kuta and near Denpasar, described the experience: “The water is going down and I can see all the mud and everything at the bottom on the floor of my villa,” said Kim Eastough, originally from Perth. She added concern about ongoing cleanup efforts and hazards such as hidden pools beneath the murky floodwaters.
Emergency Response and Warnings
About 200 rescuers have been deployed to assist affected communities across Bali. The Indonesian National Disaster Mitigation Agency confirmed that flash floods impacted four key districts and cities: Denpasar city, Jembrana district, Gianyar district, and Tabanan district.
Officials have urged residents to self-evacuate promptly as conditions continue to worsen, warning of potential further flooding. The disaster mitigation agency is closely monitoring the situation, with similar heavy rainfall also causing flooding in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara, where four more fatalities have been reported.
Ongoing Threat
The continuous heavy rains have generated considerable challenges for both local populations and tourists, disrupting travel plans and straining emergency resources. Authorities remain on high alert as they work to manage the aftermath and mitigate further damage.
Visitors planning trips to Bali are advised to stay informed of weather updates and follow official guidance to ensure their safety during this period of adverse weather.
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