Natural Hazards
Earthquakes, floods, droughts and their impact
Natural Hazards
Natural hazards are dangerous natural events that can harm people and property. They include earthquakes, floods, droughts, cyclones and wildfires. South Africa mainly experiences floods, droughts and occasional earthquakes.
Example
Natural Hazards in SA
• Floods: KwaZulu-Natal (April 2022 — over 400 deaths)
• Drought: Cape Town Day Zero crisis (2018)
• Wildfires: Western Cape, Mpumalanga
• Mining earthquakes: Gauteng gold mines
Reducing risk: early warning systems, building codes, disaster plans
Note
Remember
We cannot prevent natural hazards but can reduce their impact through preparation. Vulnerable communities (informal settlements near rivers) suffer most. Climate change is increasing extreme events.
Key Vocabulary
Natural hazardA dangerous natural event threatening people and property
FloodWhen water covers land that is normally dry
DroughtA long period without enough rainfall
VulnerableAt greater risk of being harmed
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Natural hazard
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