SWOT Analysis of Flood Disasters in the Mountainous Region of Mandailing Natal: Identifying Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats in Disaster Risk Management

Abstract

The Mandailing Natal mountain range, a region rich in natural resources in North Sumatra, Indonesia, has experienced frequent flooding in recent years. The primary contributing factor is the high rainfall, which causes river flows to overflow from the steep mountains into the lowlands. Land use changes, such as deforestation, have worsened this condition by reducing the soil's ability to absorb rainwater, leading to increased frequency and intensity of floods in the area. This research aims to analyze the factors influencing flood disasters in the Mandailing Natal mountains using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) approach. Based on literature studies and interviews with local communities and disaster management officers, the main strengths identified are the community's traditional knowledge and the rapid response capability of the disaster management teams. Weaknesses include inadequate infrastructure and low community participation. Opportunities consist of developing reforestation programs and collaborating with the private sector, while the primary threats are climate change and ongoing deforestation. The recommended strategies include utilizing traditional knowledge for reforestation programs, increasing community participation, implementing early detection technology, and improving infrastructure as well as public awareness to address these challenges. The implementation of these strategies is expected to enhance the effectiveness of flood risk management and reduce the impact of disasters in the Mandailing Natal mountains.