The extreme weather that has hit in recent days has not deterred tourists from going on holiday to the Island of the Gods, Bali. Even last weekend, December 21 and 22, heavy rains flooded several areas in Bali.
Heavy rainfall flooded a number of highways and houses in Kuta District, Badung Regency, Bali, on Sunday, December 22, 2024.
Floods have also submerged the Seminyak to Legian area, Kuta District, Badung, Bali since Sunday, December 22, 2024 morning.
Tourists staying in villas in the area were evacuated using rubber boats because the water discharge continued to rise.
The worst flooding was observed in the Dewi Sri area, Legian Village. There were also many videos of foreign tourists posting news of flooding in the area where they were staying in Canggu.
@xfellx Dont think we’ll be heading out today 😂 #baliweather #baliweatherupdate #cangguweather ♬ original sound – Em
Flooding or high water levels in Bali frequently result from the insufficient capacity of local waterways to handle the volume of rainwater during the wet season.
This issue is compounded by various contributing factors, including rapid urbanisation, which often leads to the blocking or narrowing of natural drainage systems, as well as the broader impacts of climate change, such as unpredictable rainfall patterns and rising sea levels.
As a result, the risk of severe flooding has escalated, with significant consequences for the region. Not only does this increase the potential for extensive damage to infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, but it also disrupts transportation networks, making travel hazardous.
In densely populated areas, flooding seriously threatens resident safety and health, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and accidents.
Although Bali is currently experiencing the rainy season, community activities continue as usual. Moreover, this is a peak season for tourists arriving to celebrate the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Tips for Safe Driving in Bali Floods
Here are some tips for road users, when driving and facing floods or puddles in the rainy season in Bali:
1. Ensure Vehicle Height
To pass through puddles on the road safely, motorists must ensure the height of the puddle. To know the height of the puddle, pay attention to the sidewalk beside the road. If the puddle has not crossed the sidewalk, then the puddle is safe to pass through.
A puddle that is safe for motorcycles to pass through is about 10-15 cm. If more than that, the puddle will pass through the exhaust, air filter, CVT, and footstep. The motorcycle might break down and suffer serious damage if that happens.
2. Maintain a Safe Distance
Keep a safe distance from other vehicles that are also travelling through the puddle. Avoid driving too close because water splashes from other vehicles can damage your vehicle or disturb other drivers.
3. Turn off the Motorcycle and Close the Exhaust
If you are still hesitant and worried about motorcycle damage, you can pass through puddles more safely. The trick is to turn off the motorcycle, close the exhaust, and then pass through the puddle by dragging the motorcycle to a safer place.
4. Don’t Step on the Brake Pedal Suddenly
When passing through puddles, try to maintain the smooth movement of the vehicle without stepping on the brake pedal suddenly. Stepping on the brakes can cause water to enter the brake system and reduce its effectiveness.
5. Adjust Vehicle Speed
If you are forced to drive through a puddle, try to drive at a low and steady speed. Do not go too fast to prevent water from entering the engine or other vehicles.
6. Check the Engine After Going Through Puddles
If you have passed through a puddle, but feel that the vehicle is not functioning normally such as a strange sound, a sudden vehicle shutdown or other problems, immediately stop and check the vehicle at a repair shop.
In emergency situations such as being stuck in a flood on holiday, safety should be the top priority. By staying calm, taking the right actions, and following the instructions of the authorities, you can increase your chances of survival and reduce the risk of greater injury or loss.
