VOLCANO ERUPTIONS IN BALI

Agung

This volcano is the highest on the island. It has a height of 3,142 meters above sea level and is considered sacred by the Balinese. This is due precisely to its eruptions. The volcano, according to locals, fulfills the will of the gods. Mount Agung's eruptions have been documented in historical records, and its last major eruption occurred in 1963. Then it became a real disaster for the island, which was not prepared for the eruption.

Batur

This volcano is active, but today it only spews ash and produces tremors. It last erupted in 1964. Tourists can see wonderful views around it. And tourists constantly climb it.

Rinjani

Even though Rinjani is located on the neighboring island of Lombok, its eruptions could affect Bali. This volcano has a height of about 3,726 meters. This is surprising, but it was its eruption that served as one of the main reasons for the global decline in temperatures in the 12th-19th centuries.

We are used to volcanoes erupting for real in movies, with lava splashing in all directions and devastating consequences. However, in recent years, volcanoes in Bali have erupted rarely and have not caused serious damage.

Volcanic ash released into the air during an eruption can create ash clouds that cause flight cancellations. It is also harmful for them to breathe - which is why residents of settlements close to volcanoes are evacuated during eruptions.

Volcanoes in Bali often show underground activity. During serious eruptions, this turned into earthquakes. The last earthquake occurred on August 29. No one was hurt then.

The most famous volcanic eruptions in Bali

Eruption of Batur in 1926

Volcano Batur, although not as large as Mount Agung, has left its mark on the history of the island.

The 1926 eruption destroyed dozens of villages and caused significant property damage.

Since then, Mount Batur has remained active and periodically produced small eruptions, but mostly ash.

Agung eruption in 1963-1964

One of the most serious and destructive eruptions in Bali's history occurred from November 1963 to January 1964.

The eruption of Agung was accompanied by powerful earthquakes, lava flows and volcanic storms.

This eruption took away many settlements. The Balinese spent many years trying to restore their normal lives after this eruption.

The eruption significantly changed the landscape of the island.

Agung eruption in 2017

In 2017, Mount Agung became active again. Then everything turned out to be an evacuation, albeit a very massive one.

The eruption lasted several months and included emissions of ash and lava.

Airlines began to massively cancel flights flying to Bali or flying over the island.

Agung eruption in 2019

This eruption affected an area within a 3 km radius around the volcano and lasted only four and a half minutes. And, of course, it left behind a lot of interesting shots.

The Indonesian government and local authorities are constantly monitoring volcanic activity and trying to protect both the local population and visitors to the island. Bali is equipped with an early warning system that includes seismometers, gas monitoring and warning systems.

Of course, any volcanic activity in Bali is instantly covered in the world media. Many tourists are even making plans to visit Bali based on this news. But we recommend reading local Balinese publications, which are often published in English, as well as official warnings from local authorities.

How do geologists monitor volcanoes?

Seismic monitoring

Geologists install seismometers (instruments that track earthquakes) near volcanoes. These instruments can detect micro-earthquakes and changes in the Earth's crust that may indicate activity inside a volcano.

Measurement of volcanic gases

Geologists can also measure emissions of gases such as sulfur dioxide and carbon dioxide that are released from the volcano. Changes in the composition and quantity of these gases can warn of an upcoming eruption.

GPS and infrared thermography

Modern technologies such as GPS and infrared thermography are used to monitor the movement of the earth and the temperature of the volcano. Changes in these parameters may indicate magma activity.

Satellite images

Geologists and volcanologists use satellite data to monitor changes in the shape and activity of volcanoes. This allows them to obtain extensive data on volcanic activity over large areas.

Modeling and Forecasts

Using the data and computer models, geologists can predict the behavior of volcanoes and the potential consequences of eruptions. This allows you to develop evacuation plans and minimize risks to the population.

Early warning systems

Based on monitoring data, early warning systems allow local authorities to quickly respond to volcanic eruption threats, including carrying out evacuations.

A huge number of people live in Bali, and every day they enjoy the beautiful nature of the island. If you are concerned about possible volcanic eruptions on the island, try to find accommodation in the tourist areas around the edges of the island.

We really hope that your trip to Bali goes smoothly and without any unexpected stress. At least the local government is doing everything possible to protect foreign tourists and provide them with the same paradise vacation for which people around the world love Bali.