The head of Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), Dwikorita Karnawati, issued a statement about potential extreme weather conditions expected between Catholic Christmas and New Year 2025. This includes heavy tropical rains with lightning and strong winds, as well as landslides and floods.
The weather changes are attributed to the La Niña phenomenon, which regularly increases rainfall across Indonesia, including Bali. This year, rainfall is expected to rise by 20-40% compared to the dry season. According to meteorologists, these conditions are likely to persist until at least April 2025.
The effects of La Niña are expected to be intensified by another atmospheric phenomenon. A sharp cold front originating from mainland Asia, specifically Siberia, will further increase the intensity and volume of rainfall, primarily affecting western regions of Indonesia.
The BMKG head emphasized that shipping companies, ferry operators, and fishermen should exercise extra caution as the cold front could also result in high waves.
“Moderate to heavy rains are forecasted across almost all regions of Indonesia. We urge local governments to enhance disaster preparedness by re-inspecting infrastructure and implementing comprehensive measures to minimize potential natural disaster risks,” added BMKG Deputy for Meteorology, Guswanto.
Experts also warned about a surge in illnesses during the rainy season, including dengue fever, upper respiratory infections (URIs), pneumonia, and COVID-19. Additionally, the risk of intestinal infections increases during this time.
For travelers visiting Bali during this period, it is especially important to use insect repellents on skin and clothing, keep adsorbents in the first aid kit, and maintain strict hygiene. Using bottled water for brushing teeth, washing fruits, and cleaning dishes is strongly recommended.
Dwikorita Karnawati advised staying updated through official BMKG channels and social media for real-time information.
La Niña is a climate phenomenon that causes significant weather changes in Indonesia. It is characterized by cooler surface water temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, affecting rainfall patterns and leading to both positive and negative consequences.
For example, prolonged rains often result in floods, crop failures, soil erosion, disruptions to power stations, and landslides that can damage water supply infrastructure.
On the other hand, abundant rainfall can irrigate even the driest lands, boosting crop yields. It also fills reservoirs faster, ensuring water supplies during droughts. Additionally, hydroelectric power plants operate at maximum efficiency during this period.
For travelers, one of the upsides of the rainy season is the stunning waterfalls and cooler weather, as the sun is often hidden behind clouds.
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