The impact of Tropical Cyclone Seed Invest 96S has brought strong winds and rough ocean conditions, causing not only flight cancellations but also the suspension of speedboat services between Bali, the Gili Islands, and Lombok. This also affects boats departing from Bangsal Harbor on Lombok to the Gili Islands. Port authorities have not yet announced when services will resume, as this depends on weather conditions.
The extreme weather has also disrupted ferry operations on the Kayangan Harbor (East Lombok) – Poto Tano Harbor (West Sumbawa) route. However, longer-distance sea routes, such as Lembar/Gili Mas Harbor – Perak Harbor (Surabaya), and crossings to Situbondo and Ketapang (Banyuwangi), remain relatively safe for travel.
The cyclone, located in the southern part of East Nusa Tenggara Province (in waters west of Australia), is moving southwest at a speed of 13 km/h. Local authorities urge tourists and boat operators to exercise extreme caution and prioritize safety while weather conditions remain unstable.
Travelers planning trips between Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands are strongly advised to check with their transport providers in advance and be prepared for schedule changes. Many routes have been temporarily canceled or rescheduled until weather conditions improve.
The Meteorology Agency recommends that tourists avoid coastal areas in the coming days, especially during strong winds and low visibility. Swimming in the ocean is highly discouraged. Those visiting popular southern Bali beaches, such as Nusa Dua, Kuta, Melasti, and Uluwatu, are advised to stay close to shore and avoid entering the water.
As of February 8, 27 speedboats from Padang Bai to Gili Trawangan have been suspended due to strong winds in the Lombok Strait. Services will only resume once weather conditions stabilize.
At the same time, ferry crossings from Padang Bai to Lembar Harbor continue to operate as usual.
According to the Meteorological Center, wind speeds in the Lombok Strait may reach 6-25 knots, with waves as high as 2.5 meters. Operating speedboats on the Bali-Gili route in such conditions is considered extremely risky due to their small size.
Some tourists have opted for an alternative route via Lembar Harbor on Lombok to reach their destinations.
Sources: nusabali
You can add one right now!