Indonesia, a nation recognized for its susceptibility to natural disasters, is intensifying efforts to prepare for potential megathrust earthquakes that could unleash devastating tsunamis. Ranked among the top 35 countries for natural disaster risk, the government is taking proactive measures to safeguard its citizens and infrastructure.
According to Dwikorita Karnawati, the head of Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), two zones—the Sunda Strait and the area around the Mentawai-Siberut islands—are of particular concern. “It is just a matter of time,” Karnawati stated. “Although we cannot predict when the natural disaster will occur, we need to continue to talk about this issue so that people can be prepared for megathrusts.”
A megathrust earthquake is a powerful seismic event that occurs in a subduction zone, where one tectonic plate is forced under another. These earthquakes can reach magnitudes between 8 and 9, releasing enormous energy capable of generating tsunamis that cross oceans.
The BMKG has identified and mapped 13 zones across the country with the highest potential for megathrust earthquakes. Alarmingly, four of Indonesia’s five largest islands—Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Papua—are located within these high-risk areas, with a minimum potential magnitude of 7.8 on the Richter scale.
Karnawati emphasized the importance of public awareness and preparedness. The agency is working closely with local governments to educate communities, improve early warning systems, and develop evacuation plans. “Preparedness is key to minimizing the impact of such disasters,” she noted.
Indonesia’s geographical location along the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it prone to seismic activity. Past events, such as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2018 Sulawesi earthquake, have highlighted the devastating consequences of large-scale earthquakes in the region.
As the nation faces the looming threat of megathrust earthquakes, authorities urge residents to stay informed and participate in disaster preparedness initiatives. Continuous monitoring and community engagement are essential steps toward enhancing resilience against natural calamities.
Reference(s):
Indonesia takes precautionary measures for potential megathrust quakes
cgtn.com
