Unit 20 Living with Volcanoes in Indonesia Prepared by Ms Poon Yuet Yeng Mt Bromo

Lesson Objectives Name at least 3 volcanoes in Indonesia and state their locations. Describe the dangers of living near volcanoes. Describe the benefits of living near volcanoes. List 3 ways in which Indonesians cope with living near volcanoes.

Indonesia has 150 active volcanoes scattered over 17000 islands. part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. lies along the plate boundaries of the Eurasian plate and the Indo-Australian plate. Examine the map on the next slide.

Active Volcanoes in Indonesia

Mt Krakatau Located in the island of Krakatau between Sumatra and Java. The volcanic eruption in 1883 was heard as far away as Australia and Mauritius. It produced the world’s largest explosion and created tsunamis that killed more than 30,000 people. The explosion blew off most of the island.

Mt Merapi Means ‘Mountain of Fire’. Active volcano in Central Java. Erupted in 1930 – killed 1,300 people Erupted in 1994 – killed > 60 people Last erupted in 2006! Despite its danger, 3 million people live at the base of the volcano in the city of Yogyakarta!

Mt Bromo Active volcano in East Java Last erupted in 2004 A popular tourist destination – the volcano is well-known for its beautiful sunrises, and majestic views.

Why do Indonesians stay near volcanoes? Rich and fertile volcanic soil for agriculture Mining for minerals like sulphur, gold, copper that have been thrown out by the volcanic eruption. Scenic beauty attracts tourists.

Dangers Lava, rock and ash thrown out during a volcano eruption destroy property and lives. Health problems can occur – respiratory problems, skin diseases, eye infections.

How do Indonesians cope? To minimise loss of lives during an eruption, Indonesian authorities have: put together emergency evacuation plans & shelters Improved transportation networks Distributed information on volcanic activities to educate its people.