Deadly Floods in Indonesia’s Bali Leave Twenty Three Dead, Tourists Stranded: Travel Chaos To Worsen Amid Storm Surge, You Need To Know

Published on September 13, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

Indonesia’s Bali island is battling devastating floods following torrential rains that began late Tuesday, with the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reporting 23 deaths as of September 12, 2025. This tragic event comes just as the annual monsoon season intensifies, bringing additional risks of flash floods, landslides, and transportation chaos. With an increased death toll and rising floodwaters, Bali and other areas in Indonesia face major disruptions to daily life and tourism, especially in flood-prone zones.

What Happened and What Is At Risk?

The heavy rain triggered flash floods and landslides across Bali and Flores, two of Indonesia’s top tourist destinations. The initial toll rose by four additional deaths, bringing the death toll in Bali to 14, with five more confirmed dead on the nearby Flores island. Several others remain missing, especially in Nagekeo district, where debris has hampered rescue efforts. Travel and tourism activities across Bali are now disrupted as local infrastructure struggles to cope with the sudden deluge. The official BNPB has estimated losses at 25 billion rupiah ($1.52 million), marking this as one of the worst flooding incidents in recent years. As conditions worsen, tourists and locals alike are urged to stay alert and follow safety instructions from local authorities.

Indonesia’s wet season usually runs from November to April, but this year’s rains began early, exacerbated by climate change, which has led to stronger winds, longer storms, and flooding risks that could linger for months.

Most Critical Locations

Bali remains one of the most affected regions. Its popular tourist spots are now under flood warnings as rising water levels and landslides threaten local areas. Key districts in Bali, including Badung and Denpasar, are facing severe flash floods. In Flores, the Nagekeo district has experienced dangerous flooding, leaving multiple residents unaccounted for. While Bali sees the heaviest rains in the coming weeks, the rest of Indonesia, including Java, Sulawesi, Papua, and Maluku, will see increasingly severe storms through April 2026, contributing to the high-risk weather patterns.

When Will Travel Disruptions End?

Flooding and related travel disruptions are expected to worsen in Bali, Flores, and Java until October 2025. The peak monsoon season will affect various regions differently, but areas like Bali and Flores are experiencing the heaviest rainfall now, with significant disruptions expected to last at least another two to three weeks. While the floods are likely to recede after this period, more heavy rainfall and landslides are anticipated, particularly during January and February 2026.

Meanwhile, Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta Airport, Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport, and Surabaya’s Juanda International Airport are seeing delays and cancellations due to flash floods. Flights have been impacted by lightning storms, and ground transportation is severely delayed as roads are submerged, affecting tourists’ access to the island’s hotspots.

Floods and Travel Disruptions Increasing

The annual monsoon season is a known weather pattern for Indonesia; however, this year’s floods have been exacerbated by climate change, which has intensified the rainfall season, causing longer and heavier storms. The global rise in extreme weather patterns means more intense rainfall, stronger wind gusts, and higher risks of flash floods. Bali’s infrastructure, like other islands in Indonesia, is poorly equipped to handle such extreme events. Moreover, sea levels rising due to climate change increase the risk of coastal flooding and tsunamis in vulnerable areas, impacting coastal tourism hubs like Bali.

Indonesia is also preparing for the e-visa system rollout starting October 1, 2025, which may further complicate travel for international tourists. As per the new regulations, travelers must complete an arrival card within 72 hours of travel. An e-visa on arrival (e-VOA) is required for travelers, and some may encounter delays due to the ongoing infrastructure strain caused by the floods.

Authorities Responding to the Crisis?

The BNPB has been distributing aid including food, clothes, and beds to affected regions. Emergency response teams have been working tirelessly to rescue stranded residents and tourists, though many efforts are hindered by debris, submerged roads, and continued rainfall. Local authorities have also called on the government to increase relief funding, with losses already hitting around 1.52 million USD.

For tourists planning to visit Bali, official travel advisories are in effect, urging caution when travelling to the island. With floods expected to increase through the coming weeks, travelers should stay updated through government sources such as the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and local media outlets. Additionally, it is recommended to postpone non-essential travel to Bali and affected areas until after the peak of the flood season has passed.

What Should Tourists Do?

Travelers to Bali are advised to:

• Monitor local news and weather updates closely for the latest advisories.
• Avoid flood-prone areas and stay away from beaches, which have been affected by strong rip currents and rough seas.
• Check flights and other travel arrangements ahead of time as disruptions are ongoing.
• Ensure your passport is undamaged and meets entry requirements, as damaged documents may lead to denied entry.
• Apply for the e-VOA and complete the arrival card online at least 48 hours before arrival in Indonesia.
• Exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Bali and follow local safety advice.

Rising Risks for Bali Tourists Amid Floods and Travel Chaos

The floods hitting Bali, along with the widespread disruptions across Indonesia, underscore the increasing risks posed by extreme weather events in the region. While Indonesia’s monsoon season traditionally brings such challenges, the severity and timing of this year’s storms are unprecedented. Travelers planning to visit Bali or other affected areas should stay informed, prepare for significant delays, and heed official safety guidelines. The Indonesian government continues to respond to the crisis, but tourists should take every precaution when planning travel to Bali over the next several weeks.