Mount Merapi, located on the border of Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta, and Mount Marapi in West Sumatra are active volcanoes. Eruption activities will have positive and negative impacts on the surrounding environment. The eruptions of Marapi on December 3, 2023, and Merapi on March 4, 2024, caused severe damage to road infrastructure, buildings, bridges, and settlements and resulted in casualties. This article describes the experiences of communities after the eruption of the two volcanoes. This research uses a combination of literature review and field observation methods to analyze how communities in the Mount Merapi and Mount Marapi areas prepare for disasters. The results of this study show that to increase community resilience to volcanic disasters and flash floods triggered by Mount Merapi and Mount Marapi, collaboration between the government, disaster agencies, and local residents is essential. Measures that can be taken are proactive evacuation protocols, infrastructure development such as sabo dams, and continuous education to increase awareness and preparedness. Recommendations include more intensive cooperation, educational initiatives, and strategic relocation from high-risk zones to effectively protect vulnerable communities.
Read full abstract