Tsunami Vertical Evacuation Structures in Indonesia

Summary

In Bengkulu, a tsunami evacuation building has been constructed to protect the local population in the event of a disaster. Situated on low-lying ground near the coast, the 16-meter tall structure can accommodate up to 2,000 people and is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ramps and wide stairs. Built to withstand both earthquakes and tsunamis, the building allows debris and water to pass through without causing damage. It doubles as a community center and includes essential facilities like toilets and a kitchen. A nearby blue building stores necessary logistical supplies for post-evacuation needs.

Takeaways

• 😀 The tsunami evacuation building in Bengkulu is strategically built on low-lying ground near the coast to protect the community from tsunami risks.
• 😀 The building stands **16 meters tall**, which is adequate to withstand tsunamis that have historically reached up to **8 meters** in height.
• 😀 The building can accommodate up to **2,000 people** during an evacuation and also serves as a **village center** during normal times.
• 😀 Key design features include **ramps** for disabled and elderly individuals, as well as **wide stairs** for quick evacuation in emergencies.
• 😀 The building is constructed with **round columns** that allow debris and water to flow through without damaging the structure, enhancing safety during a tsunami.
• 😀 The building meets **earthquake-resistant construction codes**, ensuring it can withstand seismic events and remain functional during a disaster.
• 😀 **Toilet and kitchen facilities** are available on the fourth floor to support evacuees during extended stays.
• 😀 The tsunami evacuation building is part of a broader effort by the local government to raise **community awareness** about tsunami risks and preparedness.
• 😀 A nearby **larger evacuation shelter** can hold **5,000 people**, with logistical supplies like food and water stored in adjacent buildings to support post-evacuation recovery.
• 😀 The tsunami evacuation building and its features represent a proactive approach to **disaster preparedness**, focusing on protecting vulnerable populations in a high-risk region.
• 😀 The structure is designed to withstand not only tsunami waves but also the impact of **debris and water**, ensuring it remains safe and functional during a tsunami event.

Q & A

Why was the tsunami evacuation building constructed in Bengkulu?

The tsunami evacuation building was constructed because the village is situated on low-lying ground, with the coast less than a kilometer away, and there are no high areas nearby for people to run to in the event of a tsunami.

How tall is the tsunami evacuation building, and why is this important?

The building is 16 meters tall, which is crucial because past tsunamis in the area have reached heights of around 8 meters. The height ensures that there is enough space for evacuees to reach safety.

What is the capacity of the tsunami evacuation building?

The building can accommodate up to 2,000 people during an evacuation.

How will the tsunami evacuation building be used when there is no tsunami threat?

When not in use as an evacuation shelter, the building will function as a village center, offering various community services.

What facilities are available on the fourth floor of the building?

The fourth floor of the building has toilet and kitchen facilities, providing essential services for evacuees.

How is the design of the building made accessible for disabled and elderly individuals?

The building includes a ramp for disabled and elderly people, in addition to wide stairs that allow quick evacuation for all individuals.

What special feature do the building's columns have, and why is this important?

The building's round columns are designed to allow debris to pass around them without damaging the structure's corners. This design helps ensure the building's stability during a tsunami.

How is the building designed to withstand a tsunami and an earthquake?

The building is constructed according to high earthquake-resistant standards, ensuring it survives a seismic event before evacuees can move to the upper floors during a tsunami.

What other tsunami shelter is located nearby, and how many people can it accommodate?

A nearby tsunami shelter can accommodate up to 5,000 people, and it provides logistical support with supplies such as food and water for post-evacuation needs.

How does the local government support disaster preparedness in the region?

The local government has initiated projects like the tsunami evacuation building to enhance community awareness and preparedness for natural disasters, such as tsunamis and earthquakes.