NATURAL HAZARDS

Natural disaster, natural hazard

Events that occur through natural processes other than human will, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, avalanches, frosts, droughts, mass movements (landslides, mudflows, etc.), sometimes leading to the loss of life and property. Human influence triggers the occurrence of some natural disasters.  For example, landslides on roads built without paying attention to the geological structure, avalanches and floods caused by the destruction of forests can be given as examples.

A natural hazard refers to a naturally occurring event or process that has the potential to cause harm to people, property, or the environment. These hazards are typically a result of the Earth's natural processes and can vary in intensity and impact. Natural hazards are classified into different categories based on their origin:

1. Geological Hazards

• Earthquakes: Sudden shaking of the ground caused by tectonic plate movements.
• Volcanic Eruptions: Eruption of magma, ash, and gases from a volcano.
• Landslides: Movement of rock, earth, or debris down a slope.
• Tsunamis: Large sea waves caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

2. Meteorological Hazards

• Hurricanes/Typhoons/Cyclones: Intense tropical storms with strong winds and heavy rainfall.
• Tornadoes: Rapidly rotating columns of air extending from a storm to the ground.
• Blizzards: Severe snowstorms with strong winds and low visibility.
• Droughts: Prolonged periods of abnormally low precipitation.

3. Hydrological Hazards

• Floods: Overflow of water onto normally dry land.
• Storm Surges: Coastal flooding caused by wind and low pressure during storms.
• Avalanches: Sudden descent of snow and ice down a mountain slope.

4. Climatological Hazards

• Heatwaves: Prolonged periods of excessively hot weather.
• Wildfires: Uncontrolled fires in forests, grasslands, or other natural areas.

5. Biological Hazards

• Epidemics/Pandemics: Outbreaks of diseases affecting humans, animals, or plants.
• Invasive Species: Non-native species that disrupt ecosystems and harm biodiversity.

Managing Natural Hazards

To reduce the risks associated with natural hazards, communities and governments employ measures like:

• Early warning systems
• Risk assessments
• Disaster preparedness plans
• Infrastructure improvements
• Public education on safety measures