Natural disasters are severe and extreme events caused by natural processes of the Earth that result in significant damage, destruction, and disruption to the environment, human activities, and communities. These events can include earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, wildfires, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and landslides. Natural disasters often lead to loss of life, injury, property damage, and can have long-lasting effects on the affected areas. They can arise from various factors, including geological, meteorological, hydrological, and biological processes. The impact of natural disasters can vary widely depending on the magnitude of the event, the preparedness of the affected population, and the resilience of the infrastructure and ecosystems in place. In addition to immediate impacts, natural disasters can also cause secondary effects such as economic hardship, displacement of populations, and public health crises.
Cyclone Alfred approaches Australia, threatening Queensland and New South Wales with 155 km/h winds and potential flooding. Communities prepare, with empty supermarket shelves and sandbagging efforts at Whites Hill in…