Torrential rain in Bali since last weekend has resulted in tidal flooding at 24 popular tourist beaches.
Bali’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a weather warning that the island should brace for more bad weather and coastal flooding until Monday, July 10, according to the Bali Sun.
The warning has been issued for Badung Regency, the most popular tourist resort area, and Batu Bolong Beach in Canggu, Seminyak Beach, Kuta Beach and Balangan Beach, as well as Gianyar Regency and Klungkung Regency, home to Nusa Penida.
Warnings have also been issued for other beach destinations such as Soka Beach, Pasut Beach, Leanting Beach, Yeh Gangga Beach, the popular surf beach Kedungu, and Tanah Lot Beach.
“We urge the public to be aware of the potential for coastal flooding,” said BMKG.
According to BMKG Region III Denpasar, Data and Information Coordinator, Nyoman Gede Wiryajaya, although Bali’s rainfall generally sits between zero and 41 millimetres per 10 days, it is currently sitting at between 700 and 3 000mm.
Tidal flooding and unpredictable waves caused by the heavy rain are a risk to public safety on the beaches. Tourists visiting or planning to visit are advised to proceed with caution.
Tourists and tour operators have been urged to consider sea conditions before embarking on boat trips, sightseeing, water sports, snorkelling and diving excursions. People are discouraged from crossing over to Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan and the Gili Islands. A swimming ban is also being enforced in Nusa Penida following a steep rise in tourists being dragged under by rough waves.
