Immediate and long-term responses of a natural hazard

Question 1

What can happen to people in a natural hazard?

Answer 1

These disasters can lead to further loss of life, injuries or damage to property.

Question 2

Immediate responses

Answer 2

1) Evacuate people (before the hazard occurs if possible).
2) Treat the injured and rescue anyone cut off by damage to the roads or bridges.
3) Recover dead bodies to prevent disease spreading.
4) Provide temporary supplies of electricity and gas if regular supplies have been damaged.
5) Provide food, drink and shelter to people without homes.
6) Foreign governments or charities may send aid workers, supplies or financial donations.

Question 3

Long-term responses

Answer 3

1) Repair homes or rehouse people who have lost their homes.
2) Repair or rebuild buildings, roads, railways and bridges.
3) Reconnect broken electricity, water, gas and communication connections.
4) Improve forecasting monitoring and evacuation plans.
5) Improve building regulations so that buildings can withstand similar hazards in the future.
6) Boost economic recovery, e.g. promoting tourism.