UPDATED as of 27 November 2017:
Threats of an imminent explosion continue to rise as Bali's largest volcano, Mount Agung, becomes increasingly volatile.
Whether you're already in Bali but not sure how to prepare, or you've already made travel arrangements to Bali months ago and were really looking forward to it, we've broken down the facts on Bali's volcano alert!
1. Current status of the volcano alert
As of 6AM on Monday 27 November 2017, Bali's volcano alert has already been raised from Level 3 to Level 4 (Awas/Warning), the highest possible level.
Indonesia’s Volcano Observatory Notice for Aviation has also raised its aviation colour code from orange to red, indicating an imminent eruption in the near future.
Credit: Smailing DMC on Facebook
Mount Agung has been continuously erupting over the past 2 days, with one eruption occurring on Saturday 25 November 2017, and 3 more eruptions occurring on 26 November 2017. The volcano alert level was raised specifically because as of 6AM today, eruptions have progressed from steam-based eruptions to magmatic eruptions. Magma has also reached the surface of the volcano, according to the authorities.
Credit: Harry Andrians on Facebook
In spite of all this, authorities are not expecting a major eruption, though the necessary safety protocol are still being closely followed.
No tsunami warning has been issued.
2. Are flights being cancelled?
Bali’s Ngurah Rai airport has been closed from Monday 27 November 7AM to Tuesday 28 November 7AM. Authorities will carry out ongoing evaluations every 6 hours to determine if it’s safe to open the airport once more.
Several airlines have also cancelled their flights into Bali, including SIA, AirAsia, Jetstar, Virgin Airlines and KLM. A total of 50,000 travellers are currently stranded at Bali airport because of the closure and flight cancellations.
Credit: 9 News Perth on Facebook
Lombok airport nearby has been reopened after an earlier closure, though some flights into Lombok have already been cancelled.
#HHWT Tip: Travellers are advised to check with their respective airlines on the individual flight status as well as how to rebook your flights or get refunds.
3. Which areas to avoid?
The no-go zone around Mt Agung has been extended to 10 KM radius around Mount Agung. Travellers are advised to stay well out of these areas for their own safety.
Credit: One Way Ticket To Asia on Facebook
#HHWT Tip: To be completely safe, we recommend that you avoid the Northeastern Bali area entirely.
4. Emergency contact numbers
If you're on the ground right now, do get in touch with your respective embassies in Bali to notify them on your safety and further advice in case of an eruption.
Credit: New Zealand Embassy - Jakarta, Indonesia on Facebook
According to the MFA travel advisory released on 24 September 2017, Singaporeans currently in Bali are strong encouraged to e-register with MFA, so that they can be easily contacted should the need arise.
Relevant contact numbers are as follows:
Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Indonesia (Jakarta)
Jln H R Rasuna Said, Kuningan, Block X/4, KAV No 2,
Kuningan, Jakarta Selatan 12950
Tel: + 62 (21) 2995 0400 or +62 811 863 348 (24-hours)
5. Evacuation status:
More than 25,000 locals have been evacuated out of the no-go zones and into shelters around the island. Let's all pray for the safety and livelihood of all those affected! ?
Credit: Balian on Facebook
6. Alternative beach getaways besides Bali
If you were considering going to Bali for that much-needed quick getaway and have decided not to go, fret not! You can still get your that beach getaway by travelling to other island destinations in the region.
Bali and Lombok aren't the only Indonesian islands worth visiting: here's 11 stunning underrated Indonesian islands you can visit as an alternative to Bali and Lombok!
Credit: @indahnesiaid on Instagram
Malaysia's gorgeous islands offer some irresistible Malaysian beach getaway alternatives that you can still visit during the monsoon season this time of year: check them out here!
Credit: @nattha.phg on Instagram