Spatial Assessment of Community Tsunami Preparedness in the Mentawai Islands Regency

Abstract

Indonesia is an archipelagic country, which makes it highly vulnerable to undersea earthquakes that can trigger tsunami waves. One of the island regions with a high level of tsunami hazard is the Mentawai Islands Regency. Therefore, this study aims to examine the level of community knowledge, building conditions, and preparedness of the residents of the Mentawai Islands Regency toward tsunami disasters. The objectives of this study are: (1) to map the level of community knowledge regarding tsunamis, (2) to assess the safety condition of residential buildings against tsunami hazards, and (3) to map the level of community preparedness toward tsunamis in the Mentawai Islands Regency. The population of this study consists of residents living in the Mentawai Islands Regency, with a sample size of 61 respondents. Data collection was conducted using an online questionnaire distributed through social media platforms, namely Facebook and WhatsApp, to the residents of the Mentawai Islands Regency. Data analysis was performed using a descriptive quantitative method by calculating index values, percentages, and mean values. The results of the study indicate that the level of community knowledge regarding tsunami disasters is categorized as moderate. The condition of residential buildings in the Mentawai Islands Regency is considered less safe against tsunami hazards, while the level of community preparedness is categorized as prepared in facing tsunami disasters.