An extreme weather forecast for a potential cyclone off Bali this week could affect thousands of Australian holidaymakers in the island’s popular tourism resort areas with travel disruptions expected amid one of Indonesia’s rainiest seasons on record.
Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology & Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an extreme weather alert for Bali Province from 11–18 December 2025 as floods have already hit Legian.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade has also updated its advice for Indonesia, warning travellers that heavy rains have caused significant flooding in Bali and Jakarta, disrupting transportation.
It comes after Tropical Cyclone Senyar caused widespread devastation in Sumatra after forming in the Malacca Strait only two weeks ago and previous serious flooding in Bali in September 2025.
The aftermath of flash flooding in Bali in September 2025. Image: Luh Kompiang/Shutterstock
The presence of a tropical storm in the South Indian Ocean region of West Nusa Tenggara has resulted in increased rain and strong winds over Bali with resort areas warned of dangerous weather conditions, such as flooding, fallen trees and landslides.
Some of the potential areas affected include Denpasar Airport, Kuta, Seminyak, and the Tabanan region, including Uluwatu. Waves of up to 2.5 metres are also expected off Bali’s southern coast.
BMKG has forecast today (15 December) and Wednesday (17 December) as peak tropical storm days.
Travel to and from Denpasar Airport could take an extra one to two hours.
The agency has warned travellers to expect delays to and from Denpasar Airport, inter-island ferry cancellations, and to avoid flooded streets and outdoor adventures and use taxis and cars instead of scooters.
“Remain vigilant for sudden weather changes and the potential for extreme weather, including moderate to heavy rain accompanied by lightning and strong winds over the next seven days,” BMKG said.
“Areas with steep, mountainous or cliff-like topography should be especially vigilant for the impacts of…landslides and fallen trees.”
For more info, head to smartraveller.gov.au
KARRYON UNPACKS: With thousands of Australians heading to Bali for the December–January summer holidays, the latest weather warning highlights the importance of booking with an agent, travel flexibility, insurance and real-time updates during Indonesia’s volatile wet season.
