Huge Bali Warning Issued After British Tourist Vanishes During Swim at Legian Beach
Bali authorities have issued an urgent warning to visitors following the disappearance of a British tourist who vanished while swimming in treacherous conditions at Legian Beach, one of the island’s popular tourist destinations.
The missing traveller has been identified as 23-year-old Harrison Edward Nada Kontounas, a British citizen. According to local reports, Kontounas was swimming with two friends on Wednesday afternoon (local time) when he was swept away by strong currents in the designated red flag area of the beach—a zone where swimming is prohibited due to dangerous water conditions.
While Kontounas’ two companions managed to make it safely back to shore, he did not. Lifeguards had earlier warned the group to leave the water, highlighting the hazards posed by the rough conditions.
Local weather data from Wednesday night recorded wind speeds ranging from 5 to 36 km/h coming from the east to south, with gusts exceeding 30 km/h classified as strong enough to significantly impact ocean conditions. These factors likely contributed to the perilous underwater currents that swept Kontounas away.
“We urge all visitors to exercise extreme caution when engaging in outdoor activities, especially beach tourism,” said I Nyoman Sidakarya, the head of Bali’s Denpasar Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas). Sidakarya explained that land searches along the coastline had been conducted. However, challenging conditions prevented the deployment of primary search and rescue equipment in the water overnight.
The initial report of the incident was received at 6:40 p.m. local time, prompting the dispatch of five SAR personnel to join ongoing search efforts. “We have coordinated with witnesses and other rescue elements,” Sidakarya added. “If he is not found by tomorrow morning, we will determine the next steps.”
Friends of Kontounas have taken to social media to seek help, with a close friend posting on an Australian travellers’ Facebook group: “Close friend was swept out to sea by a rip-tide today from Kuta beach at 5pm local time. Has not been found.” Kuta Beach is situated near Legian, highlighting the shared dangers in the area.
Numerous responses from other travellers underlined the hazardous nature of Bali’s beaches, especially in the vicinity of Kuta and Legian. Comments described fierce ocean conditions, strong rips, and even powerful undertows and whirlpools capable of pulling swimmers underwater. Some warned that swimming even between lifesaver flags does not guarantee safety.
Local eyewitnesses and tourists have expressed sadness and concern over the ongoing search. One visitor recounted being at a nearby beach bar as the events unfolded, noting that jetskis and lifeguards have been actively involved in the search for hours.
This incident follows recent severe weather events in Indonesia, where flash floods have caused fatalities and left others missing on multiple islands, including Bali.
Authorities emphasize the importance of respecting beach safety warnings and red flag zones, urging travellers to remain vigilant amid the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous coastal conditions.
As the search continues, Bali’s search and rescue teams remain hopeful but cautious given the challenging circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Harrison Edward Nada Kontounas.
Travelers are advised to monitor local warnings and exercise extra caution while enjoying Bali’s beaches.
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