The Characteristics of the physical hazard profile that influence it impact Flashcards
What factors influence the impact of a tectonic hazard
- Magnitude
- Predictability
- Frequency
- Duration
- Speed of onset
- Areal extent
What influence does magnitude have on the impact of a tectonic hazard
The magnitude describes the size or physical force of a hazard event. Often considered the most important factor influencing the impact of a tectonic hazard
Explain predictability
The unpredictable nature of tectonic hazard influences their impact
Explain the influence of frequency on tectonic hazards
areas that experience frequent earthquakes or volcanic eruptions frequently the magnitude is generally smaller, thus resulting in smaller impact, also areas with frequent tectonic activity have measures in place to reduce impact.
For example earthquake drills and earthquake proof buildings in Japan
Explain the influence of duration on tectonic hazards
The longer an event the greater the impact is likely to be.
After shocks and secondary impacts such as lahars for volcanoes (MT Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991) and tsunamis in (Japan 2011) increase the duration and therefore have a greater impact.
Explain the impact speed of onset has on tectonic hazards
The speed of onset refers to how quickly the peak of a hazard event arrives.
For earthquakes the speed of onset is almost instant significantly reducing the time available to evacuate and put safety measure in place thus increasing impact
The speed of onset for volcanoes however is much slower and therefore their is greater time to evacuate and prepare reducing the impact
Explain how areal extent can effect the impact of tectonic hazards
The greater the area covered by a tectonic event the greater its impact.
The impact of an earthquake may be felt for many kilometres however gas and ash released from volcanoes could be global in extent
