Bali Floods: 9 Dead, 2 Missing
- At least nine people have died and two remain missing as an inevitable result of widespread flooding across Bali, Indonesia, this week.
- According to Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency, five fatalities occurred in Denpasar.
- The flooding resulted in the collapse of two buildings in Denpasar, as reported by I Nyoman Sidakarya, head of Bali's search and rescue agency.
Severe Flooding in Bali Claims Lives, disrupts Travel
Table of Contents
Overview of the Disaster
At least nine people have died and two remain missing as an inevitable result of widespread flooding across Bali, Indonesia, this week. The continuous heavy rainfall, beginning Tuesday evening and persisting through Wednesday, caused significant disruption, impacting approximately 600 individuals and blocking major roadways, particularly in the capital city of Denpasar.
Casualties and Displacement
According to Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency, five fatalities occurred in Denpasar. Four additional deaths were reported in the regions of Jembrana, Gianyar, and Badung. Nearly 200 people have been evacuated from their homes, seeking shelter in schools and mosques as floodwaters remain high.
Infrastructure Damage and Travel Impacts
The flooding resulted in the collapse of two buildings in Denpasar, as reported by I Nyoman Sidakarya, head of Bali’s search and rescue agency. Access to Bali’s international airport near Denpasar was severely restricted, with only trucks able to navigate the inundated roads. Videos circulating on social media demonstrate extensive gridlock on major thoroughfares.
Emergency Response Efforts
Approximately 200 rescue personnel have been deployed to assist those affected. The disaster mitigation agency has distributed essential supplies, including tents, food, blankets, mattresses, water pumps, and rubber boats, to aid in relief efforts. Similar heavy rainfall also triggered flooding in the East Nusa Tenggara province, resulting in four additional fatalities.
Government Response
Indonesian President prabowo Subianto has expressed his condolences and directed the head of the national disaster agency to travel to Bali to oversee the emergency response. The President has instructed that the basic needs of the affected population be prioritized and met.