What Should You Do If an Earthquake Strikes in Bali?

Bali sits within the ‘Ring of Fire,’ an area that is home to the most seismic activity out of any area in the world, accounting for 90% of all earthquakes and 75% of all the world’s volcanoes. This means that earthquakes could be an unfortunate reality for expats or even unlucky holiday makers visiting the island. Following the recent powerful earthquake that struck Thailand and Myanmar, you may be wondering about how to respond during an earthquake. As with most things, it’s always good to prepare in advance and be aware of certain safety measures so you can act quickly and make both quick and smart decisions in the event of an earthquake during your time in Bali.

In 2024, Bali recorded 582 earthquakes, according to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) Region III Denpasar.

What’s the Risk in Bali? 

Bali experiences seismic activity throughout the year, with most tremors being minor. If you’ve been here for a while, you might have felt one. Occasionally, larger earthquakes occur, as seen in the 2018 Lombok earthquake that affected northern Bali. 

Immediate Actions During an Earthquake

If You're Indoors

When the ground begins to shake while you're inside a building, remember to follow internationally recognized protocol: Drop, Cover, and Hold On. Get under a sturdy desk or table, protect your head and neck, and hold onto your shelter until the shaking stops completely. Stay away from windows, glass doors and external walls that could collapse.

Important: Never run outside during an earthquake as many injuries occur from falling objects near building exteriors. Also, you may have heard some advice about standing in doorways: this doesn't apply to modern Balinese buildings which can be quite poorly constructed.

If You're Outdoors

If you're outside when an earthquake strikes, quickly move to an open area away from buildings, power lines, trees and anything that could fall. The greatest danger outside is from falling debris and power lines.

If you are riding a scooter, slowly come to a complete stop whenever it is safe for you to do so. Make sure that you avoid braking suddenly and then move away from buildings, bridges, and power lines. Once you’re off your scooter, head to an open area on foot.

If you're near the beach, move to higher ground as fast as possible, as earthquakes can trigger tsunamis with little warning.

The strongest earthquake in Bali's history occurred on October 13, 2021, with a magnitude of 7.4 on the Richter scale. This earthquake caused significant tremors across the island, although no major damages were reported.

Post-Earthquake Safety

The minutes following an earthquake are critical. Make sure that you’re not injured before moving on to help other people. Check your surroundings for structural damage, gas leaks, broken glass or water leaks. Unfortunately, aftershocks can follow the main quake, sometimes hours or even days later.

• Use your phone sparingly as networks might be congested

• If you can, find shoes to wear protect against broken glass and debris

• Listen to local radio for emergency instructions if possible

Important: If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, open up your windows and get out of the house/building immediately. If there’s a chance of a gas leak - don’t light matches, hobs or lighters. 

Tsunami Awareness for Coastal Areas

If you’re in a coastal area like Canggu, tsunamis can be an additional risk following earthquakes. Watch for warning signs like unusual ocean behavior, particularly a rapid recession of water. Don't wait for official warnings—if you feel strong shaking near the coast, move to higher ground immediately. Know the quickest routes to somewhere inland from your regular locations.

Preparation Is Key

Before disaster strikes, put together an emergency kit with the following items:

• Water (4 litres per person daily for at least three days)

• Food that doesn’t go off (think canned food) 

• First aid supplies

• A flashlight and extra batteries

• Important documents in a waterproof container

• Spare cash

Find safe areas in your house and plan what you would do if an earthquake happened. Decide on a meeting point with the members of your household in the case of a natural disaster. 

Bali has had some tsunamis, but they are rare. One of the biggest occurred on October 12, 2002, after a 6.9 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Bali.

Emergency Contacts

Another thing to keep on hand (or in mind) are the numbers of emergency contacts: 

• General Emergency Services: 112

• Ambulance: 118

• Search and Rescue: 111/115

• BPBD (Disaster Management Agency) - They are responsible for local disasters (including fires, fallen trees, wild animals in your house, search and rescue for people in the water or natural disasters.) 0361 245397

• The name or number of a hospital near you 

As the old adage goes, better safe than sorry. When it comes to earthquakes, having some things prepared and considering your actions beforehand means that you avoid making bad decisions in a moment of panic. Most injuries happen due to panicked immediate reactions rather than from buildings collapsing. If you know what to do, prepare in advance and stay calm, you’ll be much safer.

Written by Team Bali Solve
19th April 2025