Bali Floods Claim At Least Nine Lives, Trigger Emergency Response
Denpasar, Bali – At least nine people have died across Bali and East Nusa Tenggara provinces as heavy rainfall triggered widespread flooding and landslides beginning on Sunday, February 4, 2024. The disaster has disrupted transportation, damaged infrastructure, and prompted a large-scale rescue operation.
The flooding underscores Indonesia’s vulnerability to extreme weather events during its annual monsoon season, which typically runs from November to April. These events frequently cause displacement, economic disruption, and loss of life. President Prabowo Subianto has directed the head of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) to Bali to oversee emergency efforts and ensure affected communities receive essential aid.
In Bali,authorities confirmed at least four fatalities due to the floods,with ongoing search and rescue operations focused on locating missing individuals.Videos circulating on social media, though unverified by Reuters, depict major roadways submerged and traffic brought to a standstill. Approximately 200 rescuers have been deployed to assist those stranded and provide support.
east Nusa Tenggara province has also been severely impacted, with the BNPB reporting four deaths in the Nagekeo district of Flores island. An additional four people remain missing in that region. Flash flooding on Flores island disrupted road access and communication networks in 18 villages on Monday, February 5, 2024.The BNPB has distributed emergency supplies including tents, food, blankets, mattresses, water pumps, and rubber boats to those displaced by the flooding.BNPB chief Suharyanto stated that the agency is prioritizing the provision of basic necessities to affected populations.Indonesia’s annual monsoon season routinely brings heightened risks of landslides, flash floods, and outbreaks of water-borne diseases. Authorities continue to monitor weather patterns and urge residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and heed evacuation orders.
