Bali Flooding and Landslides Disrupt Tourism and Daily Life

Days of intense rainfall have caused widespread flooding and landslides across Bali, Indonesia, impacting both residential areas and popular tourist destinations. Although no fatalities have been reported, the severe weather has disrupted daily life and prompted warnings from Indonesia’s meteorological agency.

Flooding Impacts Key Areas

Several of Bali’s busiest tourism zones, particularly in South Bali, have been affected by the flooding. Reports indicate that the regional capital, Denpasar, along with Kuta, Legian, and Sanur, are experiencing flooded streets and access problems. In some parts of Denpasar, water levels have reached up to one meter, forcing residents to wade through knee-deep water inside their homes. Emergency teams have been evacuating residents and visitors using rubber boats in areas where roads have become impassable, with floodwaters rising to chest height in certain locations.

Landslides Cause Damage in Central and Eastern Bali

The heavy rain has similarly triggered landslides in central and eastern Bali. In Ubud, Gianyar regency, landslides have damaged buildings and religious facilities, including a collapsed retaining wall at Pura Kelembu temple. Near The Yoga Barn, a landslide damaged nearby structures and temporarily blocked access to a local school. Further east, in Karangasem, numerous weather-related incidents have been reported, including fallen trees, damaged homes, and collapsed retaining walls.

Weather Warnings and Airport Operations

Indonesia’s meteorological agency, BMKG, has issued high-level weather warnings across much of the island, with red alerts for extreme rainfall announced for Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, Tabanan, Klungkung, and Karangasem. Heavy rain is expected to continue in the short term, increasing the risk of further flooding and landslides. BMKG has also warned of hazardous sea conditions around Bali and nearby waters, forecasting waves up to four meters in the southern Indian Ocean until February 28, impacting ferries, fishing vessels, and small craft.

Despite the severe weather, Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport remains open and operational. Operations have largely returned to normal after experiencing earlier delays and diversions due to poor weather conditions.

Kuta Location and Context

Kuta, a popular tourist area in Badung Regency, is located 12 km (7.5 mi) south of downtown Denpasar [1]. Originally a fishing village, Kuta has become a major tourist destination known for its beach, accommodations, restaurants, and surfing opportunities.