Bali is reeling from its worst floods in a decade after torrential rains battered the island beginning September 8, 2025. At least 14 people have died, while rescue teams continue searching for two others still missing. Overflowing rivers submerged homes, businesses, and major roads across the popular tourist destination.
Rising Toll in Denpasar and Beyond
Denpasar, Bali’s capital, was the hardest hit, recording eight deaths. Other fatalities included three in Gianyar, one in Badung, and two in Jembrana, where electrocution was blamed. Authorities reported that 120 neighborhoods were underwater and over a dozen landslides had struck different areas.
Evacuations and Infrastructure Damage
More than 500 residents were evacuated to schools and mosques for safety, including 85 people from Jembrana. In Denpasar, two buildings collapsed under the pressure of rising water. Landslides blocked key roads, while two bridges sustained damage, complicating access for emergency crews.
A resident, Tasha, expressed frustration over the situation: “The flooding was shocking. I thought Bali had better drainage.”
Rainfall and Emergency Response
Meteorologists recorded over 385 millimeters of rainfall in just 24 hours — more than double the threshold for extreme rainfall. In response, Bali’s provincial government declared a one-week state of emergency.
President Prabowo Subianto expressed condolences and ordered immediate relief efforts. More than 400 personnel are currently clearing debris, repairing access routes, and continuing rescue missions, though heavy flooding has made even truck movement difficult.
Wider Impact Across Indonesia
Neighboring East Nusa Tenggara also reported damage, with three deaths, two injuries, and four people still missing. Tourist hotspots such as Kuta and Canggu experienced severe flooding as clogged drainage systems worsened the crisis.
Lessons from the Disaster
The floods highlight Indonesia’s increasing vulnerability to extreme weather events, fueled by climate change and poor infrastructure. Waste management failures and inadequate drainage amplified the disaster’s impact.
While heavy rains are expected to ease, Bali remains under a severe weather alert. The disaster underscores the urgent need for stronger flood defenses and better infrastructure to protect both residents and millions of visiting tourists.
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