Why Do Earthquakes Occur Frequently in Indonesia? Impacts and Anticipatory Tips
Earthquakes are natural phenomena caused by the sudden release of large amounts of energy from within the Earth. Some factors that can trigger them include shifts in tectonic plates, activity on the Earth’s surface, landslides, volcanic activity, and nuclear explosions. Indonesia has frequently experienced earthquakes, some large enough to cause significant damage and loss. Smaller earthquakes also occur, though not felt, and can be monitored through the official BMKG website. The question is, why do earthquakes occur so frequently in Indonesia? What are their impacts, and how can they be anticipated?
Reasons for Frequent Earthquakes
One of the main causes of earthquakes is the movement of tectonic plates within the Earth. According to the theory of plate tectonics, the Earth’s surface is divided into several large tectonic plates that can move, collide, and separate from each other. As a country located between three tectonic plates (the Pacific Plate, the Eurasian Plate, and the Indo-Australian Plate), the energy from these plate movements can cause earthquakes.
Besides tectonic activity, volcanic activity also causes earthquakes, better known as volcanic earthquakes. Indonesia, as a country located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, has the fourth-highest number of volcanoes after the United States, Japan, and Russia, making it a frequent site of volcanic activity, especially from active volcanoes, which cause volcanic earthquakes.
Impact of Earthquakes on Homes
The impact of earthquakes often depends on the magnitude of the earthquake. These impacts range from physical impacts such as damaged roads and buildings to material losses and even loss of life. The impact of earthquakes on homes can be immediate or gradual, ranging from mild to severe.
Minor damage to homes includes cracks in walls and minor damage, requiring immediate repairs. Moderate damage occurs to walls and the building structure and requires immediate repairs. Severe damage can lead to collapsed walls, large cracks in floors, or even complete collapse beyond repair.
Tips for Minimizing the Impact of Earthquakes on Homes
With the high frequency of earthquakes occurring annually, there are several things you can do to minimize the impact of earthquakes on your home. Some of them include:
– Providing a Fire Extinguisher and First Aid Kit
Large earthquakes often occur suddenly. In addition to knowledge of early evacuation, having a Fire Extinguisher (APAR) and a first aid kit can be the simplest steps in facing any disaster.
– Interior and Decoration
Interior design is also important. Avoid placing heavy objects in areas that are frequently passed or prone to falling during tremors. Some objects can be reinforced with special hooks to prevent them from falling.
– Building an Earthquake-Resistant Home
The most significant, but equally valuable, long-term measure to minimize the impact of earthquakes is investing in the home itself. Building a home to earthquake-resistant standards can reduce the impact and risk of earthquakes.
YUKARI Sawangan, an earthquake-resistant housing development using Japanese technology, offers homes with IG Strong CB Methods that have passed earthquake and weather resistance tests. As a country located in the Ring of Fire and with more active volcanoes than Indonesia, Japan is a country focused on developing earthquake-resistant housing technology. YUKARI Sawangan and IIDA Group are bringing the IG Strong CB Method, patented in several countries, to Indonesia as a solution to provide a safe and comfortable home for your family.
If you’re interested in owning a Japanese-quality earthquake-resistant home in Depok, you can contact us at 0823-1133-4579 (WhatsApp), ask us via Instagram’s DM, or visit the official Yukari Sawangan website here.
