KQ5: managing volcanoes- Indonesia Flashcards
How successful was the CVGHM in the beginning?
Set up in 1920, it’s key division was the volcano observation section which set up the first seismograph in 1924 on Mount Merapi however Indonesia was a former Dutch colony and following independence there was political tension, managing volcanoes was a low priority
How many volcanoes are monitored by CVGHM?
More than 60 today
What does CVGHM stand for?
Centre for volcanic and geological hazard mitigation
What are the roles of CVGHM in monitoring?
- Working closely with local governments and advising on mitigation strategies such as community preparedness
- Monitoring gas emissions
- monitoring EQ activity in some
What hazard is a great threat to specifically Indonesian communities? What has been done to monitor this?
Lahars, Indonesian volcanoes emit high quantities of ash and have a very humid climate with >1800 mm/annum, rainy season is concentrated around November and March is when Lahars pose greatest threat. Along with CVGHM, National Agency for Disaster Management has been installed, in association with uni based researchers, lahar sensors and closed circuit television installed to monitor places most at risk.
How are community protected from Mount Merapi?
Permanent settlements around the highest slopes of the crater are forbidden and locals on the
Southern slope at greatest risk are encouraged to relocate to safer areas, in some cases government incentives and a small plot of land can be given to move
What are cultural attitudes that may increase loss?
Many people have an attachment to their fields and village site and return, rebuild and accept the risks
How good is search and rescue?
Indonesia has some well trained and well equipped emergency services such as the military, experienced in search and rescue
Are there temporary shelters?
Yes for those evacuating, these can be upgraded to permanent residential area
What has been done to remove volcanic material and other debris?
Authorities have cleared river channels to reduce risk of lahars, some communities have used it to rebuild housing and community facilites.
