Natural Hazards

Question 1

Define a natural hazard.

Answer 1

A naturally-occurring event that has the potential to cause social and economic loss.

Question 2

Name a geological / tectonic hazard.

Answer 2

• Volcanic Eruption
• Earthquake
• Mudflow
• Landslide

Question 3

Name an atmospheric hazard.

Answer 3

• Tropical Storm
• Tornado
• Drought

Question 4

What is the risk equation?

Answer 4

Risk = Hazard x Vulnerability / Capacity to cope

Question 5

Explain the factors that affect the risk of a natural hazard.

Answer 5

• Urbanisation / Population Growth - As more people live in densely-populated, hazardous areas, there is a higher concentration of people exposed to natural hazards.
• Poverty - LICs cannot provide access to healthcare and emergency services to many communities. Some may choose to build on hazardous ground, such as a slope that is prone to landslides.
• Climate Change - Global warming leads to sea level rise (increasing risk to flooding), as well as intensifying the magnitude of tropical storms.
• Farming - As floodplains are fertile and are rich in nutrients, farmers are at a higher risk of experiencing flooding.