Bali's air travel faced significant disruption as volcanic eruptions from Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, situated about 800 kilometers away, led to the cancellation of over 160 flights from November 4 to 13, 2024. On one particularly chaotic day, 91 flights were grounded due to volcanic activity, culminating at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport. Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, the airport's general manager, noted the gradual return to normalcy as conditions improved after the eruption caused ash and smoke to blanket the air, resulting in the formation of volcanic smog, commonly referred to as "vog."
What exactly is vog? It’s air pollution resulting from volcanic emissions, mainly sulfur dioxide. When combined with oxygen, moisture, and other atmospheric substances, it creates fine aerosols containing sulfuric acid and sulfate particles. Dr. Srivatsa Lokeshwaran, head of the department of interventional pulmonology and lung transplant at Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, explained this phenomenon: "Vog is typically observed near active volcanoes, but depending on wind patterns, it can travel long distances. Even moderate exposure can cause irritation to the eyes, throat, and lungs, particularly for people who already have respiratory issues."
The health risks associated with vog are notable, especially for tourists planning to visit Bali. Dr. Ravi Dosi, consultant at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, highlighted the immediate health concerns: "Acute symptoms often include coughing, difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, burning sensations in the eyes, and sore throats. Over time, exposure to volcanic smog can lead to more severe conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)."
It’s not just the immediate discomfort that's worrying; prolonged exposure could bring about long-term health consequences. Individuals exposed for several days or even weeks may experience significant respiratory issues, including dyspnea (shortness of breath) especially during physical activities and persistent coughing. This poses serious health concerns, reminding travelers to be cautious if planning trips to volcanic regions like Bali.
Given this backdrop of environmental and health challenges, experts have recommended several precautionary measures for individuals, especially those visiting Bali. These include:
Minimizing Outdoor Activities: The best course of action on days with high levels of vog is to stay indoors as much as possible. Activities like jogging and hiking should be postponed until conditions improve.
Using Air Purifiers: Employing air purifiers within your home can significantly improve indoor air quality, creating a healthier environment, particularly on high vog days.
Wearing Face Masks: If stepping outside, wearing N95 masks or other similar protective gear can shield individuals from harmful particulates present in the volcanic smog.
Sealing Indoor Spaces: Keeping windows and doors shut helps prevent vog from entering homes, providing additional protection from air pollution.
Though flights resumed and residents look forward to returning to normalcy, the recent volcanic eruptions serve as a reiteration of the need for preparedness when engaging with nature's powerful forces. With air travel back on track, local authorities and health experts advise visitors to keep health precautions at the forefront of their travel plans.
