The rainy season has arrived in Bali, bringing heavy rainfall, storms, and safety hazards across the island. Travelers are urged to stay informed and exercise caution as the weather impacts flights, public spaces, and overall safety.

On December 14th, Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport experienced significant disruptions due to intense rain and low visibility. Nineteen flights were affected, with seven being diverted to Surabaya, Lombok, and Singapore, and ten delayed until conditions improved. General Manager Ahmad Syaugi Shahab explained that high-intensity rain caused minimum visibility, making it unsafe for flights to proceed. Airport authorities are closely coordinating with airlines to mitigate risks and provide updates to passengers through social media and official channels.

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) in Denpasar has forecast that Bali will experience peak rainy season conditions through December and January. Moderate to heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds are expected to continue. Forecaster Luh Eka Arisanti advised the public to reduce outdoor activities during storms and avoid risky areas such as open fields or unstable structures. Lightning and heavy rain have already affected most regions of the island, creating a heightened risk of accidents.

Severe weather has already caused multiple tragedies over the past two weeks. A 24-year-old fisherman was struck and killed by lightning on Mertasari Beach in Sanur. In Ubud, two tourists lost their lives on December 10th when a tree fell in the Sacred Monkey Forest, leading to its temporary closure. On December 11th, a 10-year-old boy in Kintamani was swept away by a flash flood while crossing a bridge on his way home from school.

In response to these incidents, Bali’s Disaster Management Agency, along with the police, army, and rescue teams, are on high alert to assist affected communities. Tourist attractions across the island are increasing safety precautions, with management at Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest emphasizing their commitment to safety through regular tree monitoring and pruning. However, strong winds still caused a healthy tree to fall, resulting in the recent fatalities.

As Bali navigates its peak rainy season, travelers and residents are urged to stay updated on weather conditions through reliable sources. Outdoor activities should be avoided during storms, and visits to high-risk areas like beaches, forests, and flood-prone zones are discouraged. While Bali’s natural beauty continues to attract visitors, the rainy season serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and respect for nature’s power.