I am in Bali now
Since Mount Agung, based on Indonesian volcano alert system, was set to waspada or yellow status on September 14, 2017, then awas (red status) on September 22, 2017 till present. It was such a hectic day in Bali. Why? Start by securing and moving the residents who live in KRB or hazardous volcanic area to other regencies, preparations, and precautions which are needed to be done when disaster strikes. Then, the enthusiasm of the Balinese community to provide moral and material support to the refugees, and anxiously observing the current fluctuating status of Mount Agung. However, is it safe to visit Bali now? The answer is definitely: YES
Without intending to be arrogant and conceited to the Mother Nature, we as Balinese expressed our highest gratitude to the Almighty God because He still gives us salvation despite the status of the most top and most holy volcano in Bali.
Although it is on red status, until now there has been no eruption of thick smoke, lava or other dangerous material that comes out from the mountain. Also, after determined the volcano status, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) also has established a KRB zone with a radius of 9-12 km from the crater. Which means, other areas outside the zone are safe.
I Gusti Ngurah Rai airport is operating and Tourism activities in Bali are still running as usual. You can still enjoy magnificent view of the southern coast of Bali, visit the exotic temple Tirta Empul in Gianyar, witness the beauty of the Tanah Lot temple in Tabanan, or even breakfast with the dolphin in Lovina, Singaraja. And yet for me, I can still surf and blog on the internet while enjoying the beauty of the Sanur beach with a breathtaking view of clear blue sky and the mighty Mount Agung as its background. However, although there has been no dangerous eruption, please do not attempt to visit The Mountain or Besakih temple for now because those places are within the KRB.
Besides, be careful with the information you might find on social media. It is suggested for the tourists or locals to keep updated about the status of Mount Agung through the Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), the official website of Karangasem regency, or any reliable news sources.
