The Bali government recently inaugurated the new Tsunami Early Warning and Response System Center (InaTEWS). This significant project is part of Indonesia’s national “Disaster Resilience Development Plan,” led by the Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) with support from the World Bank.
The new alert center, located in Bali, will not only monitor earthquakes and tsunamis in real-time but also serve as a backup hub for Jakarta’s main command center. In the event of a major disaster, it will swiftly relay information and initiate response actions.
During the system’s launch ceremony, Bali’s Deputy Governor I Nyoman Giri Prasta stated that the new warning system will not only improve the government’s response speed but also bring greater peace of mind to local residents and tourists. He emphasized, “We hope this center will bring more safety and stability to the people of Bali.”
Disaster Preparedness Efforts Extend Beyond This, More Command Centers to Be Established Locally
Lieutenant General Suharyanto, Head of Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency, noted that the establishment of this center is just the beginning. In the future, local-level command stations will be built in various provinces and districts to ensure a more comprehensive national disaster prevention network.
Bali’s Location in the Pacific Ring of Fire Makes Risk Unignorable
Bali is situated in the “Pacific Ring of Fire,” where the risk of earthquakes and tsunamis is ever-present. As early as 2023, Made Rentin, Head of Bali’s Disaster Prevention Agency, pointed out that the island’s warning facilities were far from sufficient, ideally requiring 41 tsunami alert points.
Now, the new InaTEWS operational center will serve as the central hub for disaster reporting on the island, addressing previous shortcomings in infrastructure.
Tourists Should Remain Cautious, Travel Insurance and Emergency Knowledge Are Essential
Although disasters are infrequent, tourists visiting Bali should still prioritize their safety by purchasing travel insurance that covers natural disasters, while also familiarizing themselves with emergency evacuation routes and shelter instructions.
Volcanic activity around Bali is frequent, such as the multiple eruptions of Mount Lewotobi in the Flores Islands in 2024 and this year, which have impacted air transportation to Bali.
Predicting Earthquakes Remains Challenging, Science Cannot Yet Accurately Forecast Them
In August 2024, BMKG warned Indonesia to be alert for potential distant tsunamis triggered by the Nankai Trough megathrust earthquake in Japan, but also clarified that current science cannot accurately predict the timing of earthquakes.
Cahyo Nugroho, Director of BMKG Bali, stated: “We are not predicting that an earthquake is imminent, but rather reminding the public to remain vigilant.”
Pay attention to this evacuation sign when at Bali’s beaches
FAQ Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bali’s Newly Activated Tsunami Early Warning System?
It is a new alert command center established by the Indonesian government, capable of quickly disseminating earthquake and tsunami information to the public and tourists.
Is Bali prone to earthquakes or tsunamis?
Yes, Bali is located in an earthquake-prone zone. While the probability is low, the risk still exists.
How can travelers protect themselves?
Purchase travel insurance, familiarize yourself with evacuation routes at your accommodation, and pay attention to local announcements.
Where should I go for shelter in case of a natural disaster?
Follow instructions from your hotel or local authorities to proceed to tsunami evacuation zones, staying away from the coastline.
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