A striking image of what appeared to be a waterfall on Mount Agung in Bali has recently gone viral on social media. However, experts have clarified that this is not a natural waterfall.
Made Dwi Wiratmaja, Coordinator of Analysis and Forecast at Bali’s Climatology Station, BBMKG Region III, explained that intense water runoff on the mountain’s surface causes the phenomenon.
Lihat postingan ini di Instagram
“The heavy water discharge at the summit creates the appearance of a waterfall on Mount Agung,” he stated.
Heavy Rains in Early December
According to weather observations, early December 2024 has seen rainfall of heavy to very heavy intensity at several monitoring posts across Rendang, Karangasem.
At the Besakih Rain Post, daily rainfall exceeding 50 millimetres was recorded between 1st and 3rd December, classified under the heavy rain category. On 6th December, rainfall surpassed 100 millimetres, falling into the very heavy rain category.
Meanwhile, the Pempatan Rain Observation Post in Rendang recorded over 150 millimetres of rainfall on 6th December, categorised as extreme.
The saturation of the soil, due to accumulated rainfall over the past week, has likely led to the dramatic runoff. “The rainwater flows as surface runoff towards the river channels around Mount Agung,” Wiratmaja added.
Risks and Safety Precautions
While the spectacle of the ‘waterfall’ is captivating, the heavy rains have created potentially hazardous conditions. Trails have become more slippery, posing a risk to climbers.
Despite these risks, the climbing routes to Mount Agung remain open. Mangku Kayun, manager of the hiking trail via Edelweiss Park, emphasised that climbers must adhere to the advice of their guides. Guides are mandatory for anyone attempting to summit Mount Agung, ensuring safety amidst the challenging conditions.
Guides conduct safety checks at the camp post, known as Post 4, before allowing climbers to proceed. This precaution is especially crucial as the summit of Mount Agung comprises loose sand and rocks, which become treacherous during storms.
For those planning to climb, it is imperative to prioritise safety and follow all guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience amidst Bali’s unpredictable weather.
