Flash floods in Bali last week cut off roads and caused fatalities, but tourism operations continued largely unaffected.
Heavy rain led to flooding in Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, Jembrana and Tabanan. The national disaster agency (BNPB) said more than 120 locations were hit and 18 people died, with water mainly affecting residential and urban areas.
Ngurah Rai International Airport remained open, tourist sites were unaffected and cancellations were minimal, with blocked roads posing the main disruption.
Tour operators adjusted programmes, with I Nyoman Subrata of Bali Bedira Anugrah Tour & Travel saying guests were advised against rafting and groups were redirected to Pandawa, Melasti and Uluwatu, while Ubud and Lovina continued as usual.
ASITA Bali chairman Putu Winastra said operators kept overseas partners updated: “This was the first flood of its kind in Bali. Naturally, there was concern, but the situation was under control, and the industry acted swiftly.”
Hotels also supported guests. The Bali Hotel and Restaurant Association (IHRA) said properties near blocked roads allowed flexible check-outs, meals and shuttles, while others sent regular updates. “The priority was just to make sure visitors felt safe and looked after,” said chairman I Gusti Agung Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya.
Meanwhile, the Bali Tourism Office worked with authorities to monitor areas and guide operators. “Our priority was to deliver clear and accurate information so operators could adjust itineraries safely and guests remained informed,” said I Wayan Sumarajaya, office head. He urged operators to step up disaster preparedness as the rainy season continues.
Tourism minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said government readiness was in place and that Bali could restore confidence. “Bali remain open and safe for visitors,” she said.
Putu added that the industry must turn the experience into stronger measures: “We need to ensure both visitors and the industry can feel confident and safe, even during extreme weather strikes.”
