Natural disaster

A natural disaster is a natural event with catastrophic consequences for living things in the vicinity.

Phase one. Favorable conditions. At this level a collection of natural events which are normally too diparate for the non-specialist to notice begins to form a system that can threaten property and life.

Phase two. Anticipation and prediction. This is when all possible directions and developments are mentioned and explored. Preparedness of local governments and agencies are emphasized and catalogued. The instructional mode begins in media outlets.

Phase three. Prediction and preparedness. Authority presents a clear picture of what is expected, also re-states the fact that these systems are unpredictable. Instructional mode is shifted into high gear and detailed lists are generated along with advice given by official organizations via news personalities. This phase is also marked by the relational contact phenomenon in which family and friends outside of the predicted zone make contact with those within the area to be affected. Concern is expressed.

Phase four. Disruption of civilized activity, hoarding of resources. Commercial activity increases to a fever pitch. Much news is made about the scarcity of supplies, which in turn, increases commercial activity. Announcements are made regarding the interruption of normal government services. Most individuals are now staying at home or other places of refuge.

Phase five. The event. The natural disaster occurs. (Note. this is "Phase one" for sudden disasters such as earthquakes and some volcanoes) This is generally marked by some loss of communication between individual groups. It is common for groups to periodically or continually use municipal resources like telephone, electricity and water to check for continued availability.

Phase six. Aftermath. Quantification, explanation. One of the first ways the disaster is measured is in loss of life, soon followed by the financial tally. Insurance companies usually fold or limit liability. Stories are told and begin to circulate. Data is compiled and evaluated to help in the preparation for the next occurrence. Relational contact is highly active as facilities permit. Reconstruction begins.

Common forms of natural disasters include:

Extreme forms of natural disaster:

impact event, the impact of a large extraterrestrial object with the Earth
solar flares

Compare with man-made disasters.

Natural disaster

See also