The benchmarks in a table
| Risk | Who issues the alert | Remember |
|---|---|---|
| Earthquake and tsunami | BMKG (Indonesia), InfoBMKG app | after a strong shake near the coast, go uphill without waiting for an alert |
| Volcanoes (Agung, Batur) | PVMBG, volcanology centre | alert levels are published; ash can disrupt flights |
| South coast | large areas below 10 m elevation | note the route inland as soon as you arrive |
In your hotel or villa
On arrival, ask where the assembly point and the route to higher ground are, especially on the south coast (Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, Nusa Dua). During a tremor, cover your head under solid furniture; afterwards, leave on foot by the stairs. If the shaking is strong or long and you are near the sea, move away from the shore without waiting for a siren. Download InfoBMKG before the trip and keep a phone charged.
Volcanoes and flights
Eruptions of Agung have already disrupted Bali airport; see our guide volcanoes and flight disruptions in Bali. Check PVMBG's alert level before a Batur or Agung trek.
Insurance
Travel policies rarely cover all natural events in the same way: read the cancellation, interruption and repatriation clauses. See our guide to travel insurance for Bali and, for health and evacuation cover while travelling, SafetyWing.
FAQ
Are there often earthquakes in Bali? Yes, most are weak; a few strong ones have led to evacuations.
Who issues the tsunami alert? BMKG, through the InfoBMKG app and its official channels.
What should I do on the coast after a strong shake? Go uphill without waiting for an alert.
Should I cancel my trip? Not without an event under way; follow your own country's official advice.
The Ubud Authority editorial team, October 2026. General information; always follow the day's official alerts.
