Natural disasters are inevitable and can occur at any time. The aftermath of most natural disasters is devastating. Disasters cause upheaval, destruction, and catastrophe that bring distress to those affected by them. When disasters strike at any time, a lack of preparedness can make it much more difficult for communities to bounce back. Though the impact of natural disasters is unpredictable and comes with fewer warning signs sometimes, their severity can be reduced to a great extent. In this blog, you will learn about the different types natural disasters and the risk factors that cause natural disaster, understand the risks, and learn how to plan and prepare for when a disaster strikes. Let’s understand what natural disasters are as a whole.
Know the Risks
To make a proper plan to build a resilient community that remains strong when faced with a natural disaster, understanding the different types of natural disasters is essential. In different regions, different types of natural disasters can occur. Some areas are more prone to natural disasters. For example, India is more prone to floods, earthquakes, landslides, and droughts. This is because of the diversity of geography in India and the presence of major river systems and mountain ranges.
When it comes to disaster warning signs, local government websites can provide extensive and valuable information on weather services and region-specific risks. When these risks are understood, and the dangers are made aware of, communities can plan and prepare better with effective strategies to deal with the natural disaster and also over its aftermath, by reducing its devastating effects.
Make a Plan
To make a comprehensive disaster response plan, the four crucial points to have in mind are preparedness, response, recovery, coordination and collaboration. Increase your resilience using these four steps.
- Preparedness: To prepare, first you must understand the risks, learn to recognize the early warning signs, and implement reliable systems to deal with the disaster. There should be emergency kits ready with all the essentials like water, food, medicines, first aid kits. Training and emergency preparedness programs, disaster response drills can also help communities ensure readiness and deal effectively with natural disasters.
- Response: In different types natural disasters, plans of different evacuation routes and procedures have to be made, effective communication plans also have to be established. Prepare and maintain safe shelters for refuge during disasters.
- Recovery: After a calamity, it is necessary to ensure that resources and supplies are distributed to the impacted people. It is also necessary to ensure that the victims of the disaster are provided medical and psychological assistance and that all the exhausted/damaged resources and services are restored.
- Mitigation: The mitigation strategies for natural disasters include creating and building structures that can withstand strong and catastrophic disasters. Implementation of measures like reforestation and other sustainable practices can reduce the risk factors that cause natural disasters.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is an absolute necessity to prepare for natural disasters. It can be useful for survival while experiencing the disaster and also after it. Some essential items to include are nonperishable food, water, first aid kit, personal hygiene items, clothing, and bedding to take shelter during a disaster. Keep other supplies like a flashlight, batteries, etc. Also, remember to take your important documents and keep them safe. Make sure this emergency kit is located in a place where all the members of the family are aware of it.
Returning to your Home after a Disaster
One must remain cautious while they return to their homes after a natural disaster. Await for clearance from officials. Don’t go back until officials say it’s completely safe to do so.
Examine the house thoroughly and inspect for water damage, gas leaks, and structural problems. Record the damage for insurance claims. Tidy up your place safely to prevent contamination and debris from hurting or sickening you.
Types of Natural Disasters
The different types of natural disasters are as follows:
Human-Caused Disasters: Examples of human-caused disasters are urban fires and industrial accidents. These, although not natural, also have a catastrophic impact. These human-caused disasters are highly avoidable if the potential hazards are taken care of and appropriate response strategies are integrated.
Tsunamis: Tsunamis are caused when there are earthquake occurrences underwater. In coastal areas, that are usually prone to tsunamis, early warning signs can be broadcasted and evacuation plans can be set up to deal with its disastrous effects.
Hurricanes: Hurricanes are one of the types of natural disasters that are known by different names in different regions. It brings a lot of destruction to the environment by causing heavy rains, floods, and extremely strong winds.
Earthquakes: Earthquakes are natural disasters that cause severe destruction to structures. In areas/ regions that are prone to earthquakes, buildings should be constructed to withstand such common disastrous occurrences.
Geological and Meteorological Disasters: Volcanic eruptions and landslides are two examples of geological disasters. Communities in high-risk regions must keep an eye on any changes in the earth’s crust and prepare for emergencies. Meteorological disasters are storms, tornadoes, and other extreme weather events.
The Causes of Natural Disasters
The causes of natural disasters are global warming, natural activities in the earth’s crust, tectonic movement, deforestation, soil erosion and seismic activity. Understanding the causes can help prevent disasters and plan and take effective measures to reduce its intensity.
- What should I do during a natural disaster?
Remain calm and composed be it any types natural disasters and adhere to your emergency plan. Pay close attention to any weather updates and instructions from the authorities. If directed to do so, evacuate via the approved routes. Choose a secure spot within your house away from windows and large furnishings, if staying put.
- What are the long-term effects of natural disasters?
Economic loss, relocation, environmental harm, and psychological anguish are examples of long-term repercussions. Communities may also have problems with public health and infrastructure damage.
- What are some common misconceptions about natural disasters?
A common misconception is that some places are more prone to natural calamities. Actually, there are hazards in every location. Another misconception is that only government organizations are in charge of disaster preparedness; in actuality, community and individual initiatives play a critical role. Finally, many people underestimate the importance of having a plan and emergency kit, thinking they will never need them.