Level of School Preparedness in Facing the Threat of a Tsunami Disaster on the South Coast of Kebumen Regency

Abstract

The southern coastal area of Kebumen Regency has a high potential tsunami threat because it is located in the tectonically active southern Java megathrust zone, with many schools located less than 2 km from the coast on flat topography, making them highly vulnerable. This study aims to analyze the characteristics of the physical environment of schools and the level of school preparedness in facing the threat of a tsunami disaster. This study uses a quantitative analytical descriptive method through observation, questionnaires, and interviews. The physical characteristics of schools are assessed from the distance to the coast, topographic conditions, and tsunami hazard zones, while the level of preparedness is measured based on the five parameters of the Disaster Safe Education Unit (SPAB). The results show that most schools are located in the red (high) and yellow (moderate) tsunami hazard zones. The level of school preparedness varies: 16.7% are very prepared, 26.7% are prepared, 40% are moderately prepared, and 16.7% are less prepared. More prepared schools generally have formal policies, complete evacuation facilities, and regularly conduct simulations with external parties such as the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI), and village/sub-district officials. While schools with low preparedness have minimal facilities, limited evacuation routes, and rarely conduct simulations. These findings confirm that preparedness is influenced not only by geographic risk but also by the school's internal capacity and partnership network. Therefore, strengthening policies, improving infrastructure, and conducting regular training and simulations involving all stakeholders are necessary. Keywords: environmental characteristics, school preparedness, tsunami, SPAB