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What are natural hazards?

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Natural hazards are extreme, sudden events caused by environmental factors that result in significant damage or loss of life, such as earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes.

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What is an earthquake?

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An earthquake is the shaking of the Earth's surface caused by the movement of tectonic plates, which can result in ground shaking, surface rupture, and other geological effects.

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What is the role of tectonic plates in earthquakes?

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Tectonic plates are large sections of the Earth's crust that move and interact at their boundaries, causing stress that can lead to earthquakes when released.

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What is mass wasting?

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Mass wasting is the movement of soil and rock down a slope due to gravity, which can be triggered by factors like rainfall, earthquakes, or human activity.

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What is a retaining wall?

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A retaining wall is a structure designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion or mass wasting, often used in hilly or sloped areas.

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What factors contribute to flooding?

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Flooding can be caused by heavy rainfall, snowmelt, tropical storms, or monsoonal rains, leading to water overflow in rivers and other bodies of water.

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What is storm surge?

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Storm surge is an abnormal rise in sea level during a storm, caused by strong winds and low atmospheric pressure, which can lead to coastal flooding.

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How can engineers improve the design of a retaining wall?

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Engineers can improve a retaining wall's design by increasing its height, using stronger materials, or adding drainage systems to manage water pressure.

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What is the significance of earthquake magnitude?

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Earthquake magnitude measures the energy released during an earthquake, with higher magnitudes indicating more powerful and potentially damaging events.

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What is the purpose of a seawall?

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A seawall is a coastal defense structure designed to protect land from erosion and flooding caused by waves and storm surges.