NATURAL DISASTERS

A disaster is a sudden, great misfortune causing huge damage, loss and destruction
to life and property. Natural disasters are caused by natural forces and are weather
related. Disaster generally affects the region where it strikes. There are several
types of natural disasters. It has the following effects:

1 .completely disrupts the normal day to day life.

2. It affects the emergency system.

1.EARTHQUAKE-

Earthquakes occur due to the violent and the sudden shaking of the earth. They
occur without any warning. An earthquake can be felt over a large area. It lasts for
less than one minute but causes huge destruction.

Earthquakes cause great pressure inside the earth. When interlocked plates of
rocks collide with each other, the vibration surface as earthquake. The epicenter is
the most effected area.

SAFETY TIPS DURING AN EARTHQUAKE

1. Take cover immediately under a heavy piece of furniture and do not move
until the shaking stops.
2. If outside, move away from poles, trees, wires and remain there till the
shaking stops.
3. Do not use the elevator, always use the stairs.
4. In the earthquake prone zone people make their house with light wood and
paper.

TSUNAMI-
A tsunami is a series of huge giant waves produced under the sea. The waves can
be as high as 100 feet .They cause huge destruction near the seashore.
SAFETY TIPS DURING A TSUNAMI

1. Stay away from beach. Do not go to beach to watch a tsunami.

2. Move to the evacuation site as soon as you hear a warning.

DROUGHT-

Drought is a period of dry weather, when there is no rainfall for a very long
period of time. Very little water is available for domestic use. In our
country farmer depends on monsoon rains, when it is delayed or scarce it
leads to drought. Drought lead to starvation.

SAFETY TIPS DURING DROUGHT

1. Reservoirs and water tanks should be build to store water.
2. Rainwater harvesting should be done.
3. Save water as much as possible.

FLOOD-
Floods occur due to heavy rains for days together. Floods occur due to dam failure,
torrential rains from cyclones and tsunamis. Floods cause severe damage to
property, life and crops. River overflows and almost submerge the area
alongside.

Huts, livestock and human beings all suffer deadly. All those who survive may
suffer from waterborne disease.

PRECAUTIONS-

1. Keep watch on rise in water level.

2. Listen to the radio for emergency evacuation.
3. Garbage should not be thrown into drains and rivers.
4. If the banks of the river is broken they should be repaired.
5.Climb to higher level ground and stay there until further instructions.

CYCLONE-
A cyclone is a sea storm accompanied by high speed winds .It brings heavy
rains. It develops in water bodies . It is caused by winds which travel at a
great speed, flattening and destroying everything in their path. Coastal
areas are more prone to cyclone.

SAFETY TIPS DURING A CYCLONE-

1. Move away from the coastal area.
2. Do not go near the sea.
3. People should make sure that the roofs of their houses are in good
condition.
4. First aid kit and essential medicine should be kept ready.