GIANYAR, DEWATA.NEWS – Prolonged rough weather marked by high waves and strong winds continues to affect Bali’s coastal areas, forcing around 75 traditional fishermen at Lebih Beach to temporarily stop going out to sea.
The conditions have had a noticeable impact on local fish supplies, particularly during and after the New Year period. While demand for fresh fish, especially for grilled seafood, increased, the supply dropped sharply as fishermen were unable to operate.
Wayan Hermanto, a local fishermen observer and platoon commander of Balawista Gianyar, said the extreme weather has persisted since about two weeks before the end of 2025.
“Fortunately, in the previous month fishermen still managed to get good catches of octopus and lemuru fish. Some of that catch was saved as a reserve to face difficult periods like this,” Hermanto said on Monday, January 5, 2026.
He explained that most fishermen at Lebih Beach do not rely solely on fishing as their only source of income. During periods when sea conditions are unsafe, which are expected to last until around March, many switch to alternative work.
“Generally, they work as construction laborers, assist in making bricks for shrine construction, or take care of agricultural land,” he said, adding that many fishermen also keep cattle as a form of savings.
As rough sea conditions are forecast to continue, Balawista Gianyar has intensified safety warnings for both residents and visitors. Authorities are urging people to avoid swimming or entering the water at Lebih Beach until conditions improve.
“We are limiting beach activities based on wave conditions to ensure public safety,” Hermanto stressed.
Officials said monitoring and public advisories will remain in place as long as high waves and strong winds continue to pose risks along the Gianyar coastline.