Knowledge, attitude, and practices of tsunami-prone communities, Nias, Indonesia

Abstract

Nias Island is presently being confronted with a substantial and imminent threat of a tsunami. However, the level of knowledge of the communities on Nias Island regarding earthquake and tsunami hazards is limited. This study aims to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among the communities residing on Nias Island with respect to the hazard of tsunami. This study adopted a community participation method derived from a social inductive study. Data were collected from field observations and in-depth interviews with 210 communities. Data were analysed using a descriptive table form for comprehensive examination. The results showed that the majority of communities lacked comprehensive knowledge regarding both the sources of tsunamis and estimated times of arrival (ETAs) for tsunamis. The findings also indicated a lack of regular disaster evacuation drills or simulations conducted by the government in the area. Moreover, there is a prevailing belief among the communities that God will prevent loss of life in the event of a tsunami. This belief is concerning because of its potential contribution to a fatalistic attitude towards disasters, potentially resulting in inadequate preparedness. The findings of this research confirm previous research that found that people living on small islands in Indonesia have very limited knowledge of the tsunami hazard.

Contribution: These findings highlight the important role of the government to carry out substantial efforts aimed at enhancing the resilience of communities residing in small islands. Currently, small islands receive less attention in efforts to reduce disaster risk.