Natural Disasters

Natural Disasters are caused by nature. Nevertheless, there is growing strong evidence that increased severity and frequency of natural disasters such as Hurricanes, Tornadoes might  be linked to global climate change. However, other natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanoes are not directly related to global warming or climate change and occur mainly due to various natural phenomena's described in detail under these categories. Click each category to learn more.

Hurricanes are violent tropical storms with  winds minimum speed of at least 74 mph. They form over warm ocean waters, usually starting as storms. As they drift slowly and are fueled by the warm waters of the tropics.  more

Tornadoes are violent windstorms characterized by a twisting, funnel-shaped cloud. Tornado is a small-diameter column of violently rotating air developed within a convective cloud and in contact with the ground. more

An earthquake is used to describe any seismic event which generates seismic waves. An earthquake occurs as a result of a sudden release of energy in the Earth's crust which creates seismic waves. more

In reality, volcanoes are vents in the Earth’s surface from which molten rock called lava is released. There are around 1900 active volcanoes around the world, including those that have been active in historical times. more

Tsunamis are ocean waves caused by large earthquakes and landslides that occur near or under the ocean. Scientists do not use the term "tidal wave" because these waves are not caused by tides. more

Landslides are a serious geologic hazard common to almost every state in the United States. It is estimated that nationally they cause up to $2 billion in damages and from 25 to 50 deaths annually. more