Warning for Bali tourists over popular tourist site and volcano
Officials have a serious warning for tourists about Bali’s highest mountain, which people climb for its sweeping views of the island.
Tourists in Bali are being warned to limit their activities around the peak of Mount Agung, an active volcano and the island’s highest mountain, which people climb for its sweeping views.
Made Rentin, the head of Bali’s Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), told local media on Monday the volcano’s activity status was at ‘Normal – Level 1’ but tourists, hikers and locals were advised to limit activities around the crater and peak.
He said during November two low-frequency earthquakes, four deep volcanic earthquakes, seven local tectonic earthquakes, and 57 distant tectonic earthquakes were recorded, according to The Bali Sun.
“Volcanic earthquakes that are still being recorded indicate that there is still supply [of lava] beneath the surface of Mount Agung,” he was quoted to have said.
The highest point of Mount Anung is 3142 metres above sea level and the volcano is considered to be sacred.
The last major eruption happened in 2017, when about 100,000 were ordered to evacuate.
Smaller infrequent explosions and extrusions continued through to 2019.
Back in 1963, more than 1500 people died after Mount Agung erupted.
The warning on Monday comes after 23 hikers were killed after Indonesia’s Mount Marapi volcano erupted on December 3.
Officials said there were 75 people hiking the volcano in West Sumatra when it spewed an ash tower 3000 metres into the sky.
About four days later, Agam disaster mitigation agency official Ichwan Pratama said all victims had been found and 23 were confirmed dead.
Indonesia experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, where tectonic plates collide.
‘Illegal’: Aussies shocked over Bali move
Many Australian tourists have this product, however Bali has now banned it with the government asking for those using it to be reported.
‘20 years to life’: Bali’s harsh new rule
If you plan on doing this while in Bali, think again. Authorities have cracked down on foreigners who are in breach of the specific act.
Startling Bali reality that can’t be ignored
Bali conjures images of white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, expansive rice fields – but there’s a confronting reality in many areas that can’t be ignored.