Urgent alert about the risk of a megathrust earthquake in Mentawai-Siberut, Indonesia.

In a recent conference, geologist Danny Hilman Natawidjaja, a researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), raised an alert about the possibility of a megathrust earthquake in the Mentawai-Siberut region and the Sunda Strait. His warning underscores the high risk faced by this seismic zone and the urgent need for the population to take preparatory measures. As time goes on, Natawidjaja's message becomes increasingly relevant; history has shown that inaction can lead to devastating consequences. Natawidjaja emphasized the importance of community preparedness, stating that evacuation procedures must be part of the education for local residents. Infrastructure also needs to be reviewed and modernized to withstand the force of a potential large-magnitude earthquake. "Minimizing casualties must be a priority," he asserted in a tone that reflected the seriousness of the situation. Collective memory regarding natural disasters tends to fade over time, something that Natawidjaja fears may occur in this region of Indonesia. The seismic history of Mentawai-Siberut is rich in catastrophic events, but it may be that current generations are not fully aware of the danger. "The probability of a megathrust occurring is actually quite high," he warned, suggesting that inaction could lead to an inevitable tragedy. Referring to past events, Natawidjaja recalled the earthquake of 1797, which reached a magnitude of 8.5. This disaster left an indelible mark on the region, and according to the researcher, the time since then may have allowed enough tectonic energy to accumulate to trigger another significant seismic event. "The estimated recurrence period has passed without that energy being released," he explained, raising concerns for the future. Not only historical earthquakes are a cause for concern. More recent seismic events, such as the earthquakes of 2007 and 2010, which occurred at the edges of the segment, have left a significant amount of energy unspent. The nature of these phenomena, as demonstrated by the Nias earthquake in 2005, suggests that seismic activity can be rapid and catastrophic, demanding an immediate response from authorities and the community. The geologist also made an interesting parallel between Indonesia and Japan in terms of earthquake preparedness. While Japan has made significant advances in issuing early warnings and preparing its population for these events, Indonesia still has a long way to go. "The culture of disaster mitigation is much stronger in Japan," Natawidjaja noted, suggesting that Japan's experience could serve as a model for Indonesia. The researcher also highlighted that, although the risk is particularly high in the Mentawai-Siberut region, other areas such as the Moluccas and Nusa Tenggara are also vulnerable. However, the lack of data on earthquakes in these regions limits the capacity for response and preparation. In the Sunda Strait, the absence of significant earthquakes for centuries could conceal an imminent danger that could manifest at any moment. Natawidjaja's exhortation to the population and authorities is clear: there is no time to lose. Preparation and education are key to reducing the impact of a megathrust earthquake. Communities must actively engage in creating emergency plans, evacuation drills, and reviewing critical infrastructures. In conclusion, the warning from geologist Danny Hilman Natawidjaja underscores the urgency of acting in the face of the threat of a megathrust earthquake in the Mentawai-Siberut region. The combination of seismic history, accumulated energy, and lack of preparedness could result in a catastrophe if appropriate measures are not taken. Education, awareness, and action are essential to safeguard lives in the future. The task does not only fall on the authorities but also on the community as a whole, which must come together to be ready for any eventuality.