4 Megathrust Zones Posing Hidden Threat to Java Island

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Megathrust earthquakes, resulting from the friction between oceanic and continental plates, pose a significant threat to Java Island. These events can trigger large-scale earthquakes reaching over 8.0 magnitudes and potentially devastating tsunamis.

To deal with the potential for megathrust disasters, the public needs to recognize the location of megathrust zones. In Indonesia, several active subduction zones act as megathrust locations, including the Sunda subduction zone which covers the areas of Sumatra, Java, Bali, Lombok, and Sumba.

Other active zones include Banda, the Maluku Sea Plate, Sulawesi, the Philippine Sea Plate, and northern Papua. Each of these subduction zones can be divided into several more specific segments or points.

Within Java Island, specific megathrust zones include:

1. Sunda Strait Banten Segment

Located in southwest Java, this segment poses a significant risk of megathrust earthquakes, potentially impacting coastal areas of Banten and its surroundings.

2. South West Java Segment

Extending along the southern region of West Java, the South West Java Segment is also prone to megathrust activity that could trigger earthquakes and tsunamis.

3. South Central Java-East Java Segment

Covering the southern areas of Central and East Java, this zone is at risk of megathrust earthquakes. 

4. South Bali Segment

While located outside Java Island, this segment could potentially affect the southern part of Bali.

Each segment has unique characteristics and risk levels, requiring tailored mitigation strategies. Understanding these zones is crucial for communities and authorities to implement appropriate measures, such as spatial planning, earthquake-resistant infrastructure, and disaster preparedness.

MYESHA FATINA RACHMAN | VSI.ESDM.GO.ID | BPBD.JOGJAPROV.GO.ID

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