The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BBMKG) Region III in Denpasar has issued a high wave warning for southern Bali’s coastal waters from November 7 to November 9, 2024.
Waves of up to two meters are expected, posing risks to marine activities, including recreational swimming and watersports popular with locals and tourists.
Cahyo Nugroho, Head of BBMKG Region III, urged caution among local fishermen and those involved in marine tourism, as wind speeds and wave heights are likely to increase throughout this period. “Fishermen, the public, and those involved in marine tourism should be mindful of the potential for stronger winds and higher sea waves,” Nugroho said.
Weather Conditions and Wind Patterns
According to BBMKG’s forecast, Bali can expect partly cloudy skies with light to moderate rain across its western, eastern, and central regions over the next three days. Winds are expected from the east-southeast, reaching speeds of up to 32 kilometers per hour.
This weather pattern is influenced by a weak La Niña effect, indicated by the Southern Oscillation Index (ENSO) value of -0.48. This La Niña phase enhances convective cloud formation and raises the likelihood of rain, which contributes to wind and wave intensification in southern waters.
Affected Areas and Recommended Safety Measures
BBMKG identified Bali Strait’s southern section, Badung Strait, and Lombok Strait’s southern part as the areas most vulnerable to high waves, with waves potentially reaching between 1.25 to 2.5 meters.
BBMKG issued specific cautions for vessel operators:
- Small fishing boats should avoid waters with winds exceeding 15 knots and waves over 1.25 meters.
- Barges are advised to stay vigilant if winds reach over 16 knots and waves exceed 1.5 meters.
- Ferry operators are urged to exercise caution in conditions where winds surpass 21 knots and waves reach up to 2.5 meters.
For updates on weather conditions, BBMKG Denpasar advises the public to check its official websites at balai3.denpasar.bmkg.go.id or web.meteo.bmkg.go.id.
