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Bali, one of Indonesia's most popular islands, has been struck by its worst flooding in a decade, leaving at least 14 people dead and dozens more displaced. Torrential rains battered the island earlier this week, overwhelming rivers and drainage systems, and triggering severe landslides that cut off major roads and damaged bridges. Though the rains have eased and water levels are receding, rescue operations remain underway as authorities search for survivors, with two people still missing in Denpasar.
Eight of the victims were confirmed in Bali's bustling capital city, where collapsing buildings and surging waters left residents reeling. In Gianyar three others lost their lives, while one fatality was reported in Badung County. Two more victims died in Jembrana Regency, swept away by strong currents and electrocution. Local officials say hundreds have been forced into temporary shelters, with some neighborhoods reduced to ruins.
The provincial government has declared a state of emergency lasting one week, as recovery efforts continue under difficult conditions. Nyoman Sidakarya, head of the island's search and rescue agency, told local media that access to many flooded areas remains nearly impossible, with even trucks unable to push through the debris. President Prabowo Subianto issued a statement of condolence and ordered swift intervention, stressing the importance of targeted aid for the hardest-hit communities.
The flooding has disrupted not only homes but also businesses and Bali's thriving tourism industry. Popular destinations, including hotels and resorts, have struggled to cope as rubbish-clogged drains worsened the disaster, exposing long-standing problems with waste management and infrastructure. More than 385 millimeters of rain was recorded in just 24 hours, an extraordinary level that climatologists say reflects the worsening impact of climate change on Southeast Asia.
Neighboring East Nusa Tenggara province also reported fatalities, with three people dead and four missing following flash floods. Officials warn that while rainfall is expected to lessen, Bali remains under severe weather alerts, with risks of further landslides and flooding. For many residents, the devastation is a sobering reminder that the island's beauty is matched by its vulnerability, and that stronger investment in infrastructure and disaster preparedness is urgently needed to protect lives and livelihoods.
