Bali Floods Kill 18, Thousands Affected: BNPB
Jakarta (ANTARA) – Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall in Bali have claimed at least 18 lives, the Indonesian National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) confirmed Wednesday, following a week-long search and rescue operation concluding Tuesday, September 16.
Approximately 6,309 families across denpasar City and surrounding districts have been impacted by the widespread damage to homes, public facilities, and infrastructure.
“So far, the death toll from the Bali flooding has reached 18,” stated Abdul Muhari, Head of the BNPB Center for Disaster Data, Facts, and Communication.
the floods damaged 520 public facilities, severed three bridges, disrupted roads at 23 locations, compromised 82 retaining walls, and damaged 194 residences. Denpasar City sustained the most meaningful damage, with 474 public facilities affected.Karangasem District saw one bridge destroyed, 47 homes damaged, and 14 dams impacted. Jembrana District also reported similar effects.
While the primary search and rescue mission has concluded, stakeholders – including the National SAR Agency (basarnas), Bali Regional Police, BNPB’s Bali Office, and volunteers – will continue to monitor the situation and are prepared to resume operations should any missing victims be located.
The Indonesian government has responded by deploying SAR personnel, establishing refugee shelters, and distributing essential aid. President Prabowo Subianto, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai, Tourism minister Widiyanti Wardhana, and Social Affairs Minister Saifullah yusuf have visited the province to assess the situation and support residents.
Relatedly, Denpasar has announced aid packages to help revive businesses impacted by the flooding, and authorities are exploring weather modification options to prevent future occurrences.
