Case Study - WEBGIS-Based Visualization for Supporting Risk Reduction of Mount Merapi Eruption in Sleman Regency

Overview

The WEBGIS-Based Visualization for Risk Reduction of Mount Merapi Eruption in Sleman Regency project is designed to support disaster management efforts by providing critical geospatial insights. Sleman Regency, located on the southern slopes of Mount Merapi, is highly vulnerable to volcanic eruptions, making effective disaster risk reduction essential for the safety of its inhabitants.

This project utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to visualize key elements that contribute to disaster risk reduction, including:

• Vulnerable Areas: Identifying regions most at risk from volcanic activity, including pyroclastic flow paths and areas prone to lava and ash fall.
• Disaster Radius: Mapping the impact zones based on past eruptions to determine evacuation zones and high-risk areas.
• Observation and Command Posts: Displaying the locations of observation posts and main command centers to ensure effective communication and coordination during emergencies.
• Refugee Shelters: Visualizing the placement of refugee shelters and temporary barracks to support disaster preparedness and response efforts.
• Main River Flows: Highlighting the key river systems that may channel volcanic debris or lahars, impacting surrounding communities.
• Affected Villages: Providing a detailed view of villages and settlements directly impacted by previous eruptions, helping to plan evacuation routes and emergency response.

By integrating these factors into an intuitive WEBGIS platform, this project enables disaster response teams and decision-makers to make informed, real-time decisions for reducing the risk of future Mount Merapi eruptions. The visualized data ensures a clearer understanding of the region’s vulnerabilities, ultimately enhancing disaster preparedness and resilience in Sleman Regency.

What we did