Authorities in Bali are bolstering flood defenses in Denpasar City with a new early warning system, following significant flooding experienced in September 2025. The Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) of Bali began installation of the systems on Sunday, with a target completion date of January 12.
New Flood Warning Systems for Bali
The BPBD is prioritizing six locations considered most vulnerable to flooding. These include areas along the Badung River near Kumbasari Market, the Wangaya Bunga Market bridge, the Wangaya flood control structure, the Wangaya Muslim Village bridge, the Badung River bridge on Hasanudin Street, and a bridge on Pekambingan Street.
BPBD Bali Head I Gede Agung Teja Bhusana Yadnya stated that the agency is collaborating with PLN, the state-run electricity company, and the Disaster Risk Reduction Forum to facilitate the installation. The system utilizes sensors placed in rivers, coupled with sirens positioned above the water – a design mirroring those used for tsunami warnings.
The sirens are designed to activate at three different water levels: 30 centimeters, 86 centimeters, and 150 centimeters above normal. The evacuation threshold for the Kumbasari Market sensor is 266 centimeters, though this varies by location. Residents and individuals within a 200–300 meter radius of the alarms will receive information about the system.
The installation of these systems is considered crucial in anticipation of the peak of the rainy season. Should the systems prove effective, they could provide valuable time for residents to prepare and evacuate, potentially mitigating the impact of future floods. It is possible that the success of this initiative could lead to expansion of the early warning system to other flood-prone areas of Bali.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the installation of these early warning systems?
The installation was prompted by major floods experienced in Denpasar City in September 2025.
How many locations will have the early warning systems installed?
Six locations in Denpasar City have been identified as priority points for the installation of the early warning systems.
When is the installation expected to be completed?
The BPBD aims to complete the installation of the systems by January 12.
As Bali prepares for the rainy season, how important do you think community involvement will be in ensuring the effectiveness of these new early warning systems?
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