BMKG, Japan Conduct Research Related to Earthquake Prediction

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) of Indonesia is teaming up with the Earthquake Prediction Research Center (EPRC) of Japan to conduct a joint research related to earthquake prediction.

"BPRC has offered a chance to cooperate with us including in improving our human resources. We will send officers to Japan and BPRC will provide them with super computing skill," BMKG Chief Andi Sakya said on Monday.

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The cooperation is important to increase the capacity and accuracy of data to support the early earthquake warning system as part of efforts to mitigate the impact of earthquake, he said.

Actually, BMKG is in the process of conducting a study to predict earthquakes by applying a precursor system and installing a sensor in earthquake-prone places, he said.

"For its part, we must conduct an analysis soon. We need a super computer set with sophisticated capability. BPRC has offered the super computer including capacity building for its human resources," he added.

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Through the joint research, Japan which is in the middle of developing an earthquake prediction system will help BMKG ensure the accuracy of data and information on earthquake, he said.

"Through the cooperation with Japan, we hope that the precursor will be able to provide information four to 25 days before an earthquake happens. If it can be integrated to the early warning system the community will have enough time to evacuate," he said.

ANTARA