Bali’s rainy season has just begun, but it has already brought about torrential downpours and fierce storms that have caused significant disruptions across the island. If you’re planning a trip to Bali during this time, you may want to buckle up for some unexpected weather surprises!
Flight Disruptions: What Happened Recently?
Just this past weekend, Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport experienced a wave of disruptions, with 19 flights delayed or diverted due to extreme weather conditions on Saturday, December 14th. As a traveler, I can imagine how frustrating that must be! Picture yourself ready to explore Bali’s beaches and vibrant culture, only to find out your flight has been delayed.
Travelers headed to and from Denpasar encountered poor visibility, with strong winds and rain making landings unsafe. Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, the Airport’s General Manager, shared in a press conference, “We can convey that the rainy weather that occurred on Saturday resulted in several flights to and from Bali being affected.”
Where Were The Flights Diverted?
Due to the inclement weather, many flights were redirected to Surabaya, Lombok, and even as far as Singapore. Imagine the added adventure, yet frustration, for those unexpected layovers! The airport’s management confirmed that the safety of passengers was their top priority, stating, “The diverted flights landed at these airports due to the high intensity of rain which caused minimum visibility.”
Advice for Travelers in Bali’s Rainy Season
As the weather forecasts continue to indicate more storms, it’s essential for tourists to stay updated on flight schedules and weather warnings. Always check your airline’s current updates and consider following the I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport on Instagram for real-time announcements.
Shahab also assured the public, “We are coordinating with all relevant stakeholders to keep everyone informed about the changing weather conditions.” Keeping communication lines open can help you navigate any changes and avoid potential travel headaches during your stay in Bali.
Preparing for More Storms: Advice from Experts
The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency in Bali has forecasted the rainy season will peak in December and January, with increased storms and lightning anticipated. This news might send chills down the spine of many who enjoy outdoor activities. Denpasar’s Weather Forecaster, Luh Eka Arisanti, advised, “Currently, the rainy season has occurred in most areas of Bali, and we expect it to peak soon.”
Safety Precautions and Public Warnings
As we tread through the rainy season, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential hazards such as flash floods, falling trees, and landslides. Sadly, the recent extreme weather has already taken the lives of several individuals in Bali. Just the other day, the Denpasar Police confirmed that a 24-year-old local fisherman lost his life after being struck by lightning while at Mertasari Beach. It’s a stark reminder of how quickly the weather can turn dangerous.
Additionally, Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest has closed its doors after a tragic incident where two tourists were killed by a falling tree. Management released a statement expressing their deepest regrets and reaffirming their commitment to visitor safety through regular maintenance practices.
In your travels, consider taking precautions. Avoid outdoor activities during heavy rain, and if you find yourself outside, steer clear of open fields and tall trees that could be lightning targets. Having a backup plan will help keep your Bali experience enjoyable and safe!
As travelers, we should stay informed and adapt our plans to the ever-changing weather landscape in Bali this rainy season. Embrace the adventure, and stay safe!
