Agency warns of tidal flooding at 26 beaches across Bali

Surfers carry their surfboards as they return after a session at a beach in Sanur, Bali, on Jan 18, 2023. - AFP

DENPASAR (The Jakarta Post/Asia News Network): The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) issued a warning on Friday (Jan 20) about potential tidal flooding at 26 beaches across Bali. The tidal flooding could last from Saturday until Wednesday.

The agency listed the beaches as Seminyak, Kuta, Batu Bolong, Jerman, Nusa Dua, Balangan, Padang Padang, Nusa Penida, Nunggalan, Pandawa, Serangan, Sanur, Sindu, Saba, Masceti, Lebih, Kusamba, Pulukan, Pekutatan, Balian, Soka, Pasut, Kelanting Beach, Yeh Gangga, Kedungu and Tanah Lot.

Data and information coordinator at BMKG Bali, I Nyoman Gede Wiryajaya, told The Jakarta Post on Friday that the potential tidal flooding was due to effect of a super new moon that occurs along with perigee, when the Moon is closest in its orbit to the Earth.

“The super new moon could also cause high tides all around Indonesia,” Wiryajaya said.

The agency warns all people to be alert if they engage in any activities at the beach. Wiryajaya said there was no prohibition on people doing activities at the beach, saying that the warning was only issued to increase alertness.

“I think visitors can still go to the beach, but please be careful,” he said.

Wiryajaya said the BMKG had notified all relevant stakeholders about the warning. He said that the high tides may impact businesses, including ferry boats in several harbours in Bali, and also the activities of salt farmers and fishermen.