Disaster Management and Mitigation Measures
Disaster Management and Mitigation Measures
Disaster Management and Mitigation Measures
Module 1: Introduction
Disaster
A disaster is a sudden, calamitous event that seriously disrupts the functioning of a community or society and causes human,
material, and economic or environmental losses that exceed the community’s or society’s ability to cope using its own resources.
Though often caused by nature, disasters can have human origins.
Natural Disaster: Meteorological, Topographical and Environmental
Man made Disaster: Technological, Industrial and warfare
Hazard
A hazard is any object, situation, or behaviour that has the potential to cause injury, ill health, or damage to property or the
environment.
General perspective
Disasters are events that cause significant disruption, damage, and distress to individuals, communities, and societies. They can
take various forms, ranging from natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes to human-made disasters such as industrial
accidents or conflicts. Here's a general perspective on disasters:
1. Definition
Disasters are defined as sudden, catastrophic events that cause widespread destruction, disruption, and distress, often
exceeding the affected community's ability to cope using its resources.
2. Types of Disasters
• Natural Disasters: Events caused by natural forces, including earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and droughts.
• Human-Made Disasters: Result from human activities, such as industrial accidents, transportation accidents, nuclear incidents,
and conflicts.
3. Impact on Society
Disasters can have profound social, economic, and environmental impacts. They may lead to loss of life, displacement of
populations, destruction of infrastructure, and long-term psychological and economic consequences.
4. Vulnerability and Resilience
Vulnerability refers to the degree to which a community or system is susceptible to the negative impacts of disasters.
Resilience is the ability to absorb shocks, adapt, and recover. Understanding and addressing vulnerability are essential for
building resilience.
5. Preparedness and Mitigation
Preparedness involves activities and measures taken in advance to ensure effective response and recovery. Mitigation focuses
on reducing the impact and severity of disasters through preventive measures, early warning systems, and sustainable
development practices.
6. Global Perspective
Disasters often transcend national borders, requiring international cooperation for effective response and recovery. Global
perspectives emphasize the interconnectedness of communities and the importance of sharing knowledge, resources, and best
practices.
7. Humanitarian Response
Humanitarian organizations play a crucial role in providing emergency relief, medical assistance, shelter, and other support to
affected populations. Timely and well-coordinated responses can save lives and alleviate suffering.
8. Climate Change and Disasters
The changing climate contributes to the frequency and intensity of some types of disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and
wildfires. Addressing climate change is increasingly seen as a key component of disaster risk reduction.
9. Community Engagement
Engaging local communities in disaster risk reduction and response efforts is essential. Communities often possess valuable
local knowledge, and involving them in decision-making processes enhances the effectiveness of disaster management.
10. Long-Term Recovery
Recovery from disasters is a complex and long-term process. It involves rebuilding infrastructure, restoring livelihoods,
addressing psychological trauma, and implementing measures to reduce the risk of future disasters.
Flood
•A flood is an overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry.
•In the sense of "flowing water", the word may also be applied to the inflow of the tide.
•Floods can also occur in rivers when the flow rate exceeds the capacity of the river channel, particularly at bends or meanders in
the waterway. Floods often cause damage to homes and businesses if they are in the natural flood plains of rivers.
Flash flood
A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas: washes, rivers, dry lakes and depressions. It may be caused by heavy rain
associated with a severe thunderstorm, hurricane, tropical storm, or meltwater from ice or snow flowing over ice sheets or
snowfields. Flash floods may also occur after the collapse of a natural ice or debris dam, or a human structure such as a man-made
dam, as occurred before the Johnstown Flood of 1889. Flash floods are distinguished from regular floods by having a timescale of
fewer than six hours between rainfall and the onset of flooding
Drought
•A drought is an event of prolonged shortages in the water supply, whether atmospheric (below-average precipitation), surface
water or ground water. A drought can last for months or years, or may be declared after as few as 15 days.
•It can have a substantial impact on the ecosystem and agriculture of the affected region.
•Drought is a recurring feature of the climate in most parts of the world. However, these regular droughts have become more
extreme and more unpredictable due to climate change.
Cloud burst
Cloudburst, a sudden, very heavy rainfall, usually local in nature and of brief duration. Most so-called cloudbursts occur in
connection with thunderstorms. In these storms there are violent uprushes of air, which at times prevent the condensing raindrops
from falling to the ground. A large amount of water may thus accumulate at high levels, and if the upward currents are weakened
the whole of this water falls at one time.
Cloudbursts are especially common in mountainous areas. This is probably because the warm air currents of a thunderstorm tend
to follow the upward slope of a mountain. The effects of heavy rain are especially striking on mountain slopes because the falling
water is concentrated in valleys and gulleys. Mountain cloudbursts cause sudden and destructive floods
Earthquake
•An earthquake (also known as a quake, tremor or temblor) is the shaking of the surface of the Earth resulting from a sudden
release of energy in the Earth's lithosphere that creates seismic waves.
•Earthquake, any sudden shaking of the ground caused by the passage of seismic waves through Earth’s rocks. Seismic waves are
produced when some form of energy stored in Earth’s crust is suddenly released, usually when masses of rock straining against one
another suddenly fracture and “slip.”
Landslides
•A landslide is defined as the movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope. Landslides are a type of "mass wasting,"
which denotes any down-slope movement of soil and rock under the direct influence of gravity. The term "landslide" encompasses
five modes of slope movement: falls, topples, slides, spreads, and flows. These are further subdivided by the type of geologic
material (bedrock, debris, or earth). Debris flows (commonly referred to as mudflows or mudslides) and rock falls are examples of
common landslide types.
•Almost every landslide has multiple causes. Slope movement occurs when forces acting down-slope (mainly due to gravity)
exceed the strength of the earth materials that compose the slope. Causes include factors that increase the effects of down-slope
forces and factors that contribute to low or reduced strength. Landslides can be initiated in slopes already on the verge of
movement by rainfall, snowmelt, changes in water level, stream erosion, changes in ground water, earthquakes, volcanic activity,
disturbance by human activities, or any combination of these factors. Earthquake shaking and other factors can also induce
landslides underwater. These landslides are called submarine landslides. Submarine landslides sometimes cause tsunamis that
damage coastal areas.
Avalanches
•Falling masses of snow and ice, avalanches pose a threat to anyone on snowy mountainsides. Beautiful to witness from afar, they
can be deadly because of their intensity and seeming unpredictability.
•An avalanche (also called a snowslide) is a rapid flow of snow down a slope, such as a hill or mountain.
•They occur in two general forms, or combinations thereof: slab avalanches made of tightly packed snow, triggered by a collapse of
an underlying weak snow layer, and loose snow avalanches made of looser snow.
•Avalanches can happen in any mountain range that has an enduring snowpack. They are most frequent in winter or spring, but
may occur at any time of year. In mountainous areas, avalanches are among the most serious natural hazards to life and property,
so great efforts are made in avalanche control.
•There are many classification systems for the different forms of avalanches, which vary according to their users' needs.
Avalanches can be described by their size, destructive potential, initiation mechanism, composition, and dynamics.
•Avalanche initiation can start at a point with only a small amount of snow moving initially; this is typical of wet snow avalanches
or avalanches in dry unconsolidated snow. However, if the snow has sintered into a stiff slab overlying a weak layer then fractures
can propagate very rapidly, so that a large volume of snow, that may be thousands of cubic meters, can start moving almost
simultaneously.
Volcanic eruptions
• Volcanic eruptions happen when lava and gas are discharged from a volcanic vent. The most common consequences of this are
population movements as large numbers of people are often forced to flee the moving lava flow. Volcanic eruptions often cause
temporary food shortages and volcanic ash landslides called Lahar.
• The most dangerous type of volcanic eruption is referred to as a 'glowing avalanche'. This is when freshly erupted magma forms
hot pyroclastic flow which have temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees. The pyroclastic flow is formed from rock fragments following
a volcanic explosion , the flow surges down the flanks of the volcano at speeds of up to several hundred kilometres per hour, to
distances often up to 10km and occasionally as far as 40 km from the original disaster site.
Mudflow
Mudflows occur on steep slopes where vegetation is not sufficient to prevent rapid erosion but can occur on gentle slopes if other
conditions are met. Other factors are heavy precipitation in short periods and an easily erodible source material.
Mudflow deposits are poorly sorted mixtures of silt, boulders, organic materials, and other debris. They have abrupt and well-
defined edges, irregular surfaces, and a lobate appearance; they may be 3 to 6 m (10 to 20 feet) high.
Cyclone
• Cyclones can be the most intense storms on Earth. A cyclone is a system of winds rotating counterclockwise in the Northern
Hemisphere around a low pressure center. The swirling air rises and cools, creating clouds and precipitation.
• There are two types of cyclones: middle latitude (mid-latitude) cyclones and tropical cyclones. Mid-latitude cyclones are the main
cause of winter storms in the middle latitudes. Tropical cyclones are also known as hurricanes.
• An anticyclone is the opposite of a cyclone. An anticyclone’s winds rotate clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere around a center
of high pressure. Air comes in from above and sinks to the ground. High pressure centers generally have fair weather.
Storm
•A storm is any disturbed state of an environment or in an astronomical body's atmosphere especially affecting its surface, and
strongly implying severe weather. It may be marked by significant disruptions to normal conditions such as strong wind, tornadoes,
hail, thunder and lightning (a thundersto rm), heavy precipitation (snowstorm, rainstorm), heavy freezing rain (ice storm), strong
winds (tropical cyclone, windstorm), or wind transporting some substance through the atmosphere as in a dust storm, blizzard,
sandstorm, etc.
• Storms have the potential to harm lives and property via storm surge, heavy rain or snow causing flooding or road impassibility,
lightning, wildfires, and vertical wind shear. Systems with significant rainfall and duration help alleviate drought in places they
move through. Heavy snowfall can allow special recreational activities to take place which would not be possible otherwise, such
as skiing and snowmobiling.
• Storms are created when a center of low pressure develops with the system of high pressure surrounding it. This combination of
opposing forces can create winds and result in the formation of storm clouds such as cumulonimbus. Small localized areas of low
pressure can form from hot air rising off hot ground, resulting in smaller disturbances such as dust devils and whirlwinds.
Storm Surge
• A storm surge is a rise in sea level that occurs during tropical cyclones, intense storms also known as typhoons or hurricanes. The
storms produce strong winds that push the water into shore, which can lead to flooding. This makes storm surges very dangerous
for coastal regions.
• A storm surge is primarily caused by the relationship between the winds and the ocean’s surface. The water level rises where the
winds are strongest. In addition, water is pushed in the direction the winds are blowing.
• The rotation of the Earth causes winds to move toward the right in the Northern Hemisphere and toward the left in the Southern
Hemisphere—a phenomenon known as the Coriolis effect. If a cyclone develops in the Northern Hemisphere, the surge will be
largest in the right-forward part of the storm. In the Southern Hemisphere, the surge will be largest in the left-forward part of the
cyclone.
• Another factor contributing to storm surge is atmospheric pressure. Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of
air in the Earth’s atmosphere. The pressure is higher at the edges of a cyclone than it is at the center. This pushes down the water
in the outer parts of the storm, causing the water to bulge at the eye and eye wall—where the winds have helped add to the rise in
sea level.
Climate change
Long-term shifts in weather patterns driven by human activities, mainly burning fossil fuels, causing rising temperatures, extreme
weather, and disrupted ecosystems.
Global warming
The long-term heating of Earth’s climate system due to greenhouse gases trapping heat, primarily caused by burning fossil fuels.
Sea level rise
The increasing height of the oceans’ surface due to melting glaciers and ice sheets, driven by global warming, threatening coastal
communities.
Ozone depletion
The thinning of the ozone layer in Earth's upper atmosphere caused by human-made chemicals, increasing harmful UV radiation
reaching the surface.
Role of growing population and subsequent industrialization, urbanization and changing lifestyle of human beings in frequent
occurrences of manmade disasters.
1. Increased Industrialization:
• Impact: Growing populations often drive increased industrial activity to meet the rising demand for goods and services.
This results in the establishment and expansion of industrial facilities, raising the potential for industrial accidents, chemical
spills, and other hazardous incidents.
• Risk Amplification: The concentration of industries in urban areas, often near residential zones, can amplify the risks
associated with industrial disasters. Accidents in these settings can lead to severe consequences for both human
populations and the environment.
2. Rapid Urbanization:
• Impact: Urbanization, driven by population growth, leads to the expansion of cities and the development of urban
infrastructure. The concentration of people and critical infrastructure in urban areas increases the vulnerability to
disasters.
• Risk Factors: High-density urban environments are susceptible to various man-made disasters, including transportation
accidents, structural failures, fires, and the release of hazardous materials. The proximity of critical facilities, such as power
plants or chemical storage, to residential areas adds to the risk.
3. Changing Lifestyles and Consumption Patterns:
• Impact: A growing population and changing lifestyles contribute to increased consumption of resources, leading to more
waste generation and environmental impact.
• Risk Factors: The disposal of electronic waste, industrial byproducts, and other pollutants poses environmental hazards.
Improper disposal methods can result in contamination of water, soil, and air, leading to long-term environmental
degradation.
4. Infrastructure Strain:
• Impact: The demand for housing, transportation, and energy puts a strain on existing infrastructure. Overloaded
infrastructure is more prone to failures and accidents.
• Risk Amplification: Overcrowded transportation systems, inadequate housing, and stressed energy grids increase the risk
of accidents, structural failures, and service disruptions.
5. Increased Transportation Risks:
• Impact: The need for transportation services escalates with a growing population, leading to increased vehicular traffic,
public transportation use, and the transportation of goods.
• Risk Factors: Higher traffic volumes and transportation-related activities raise the likelihood of accidents, spills, and
disruptions, impacting both safety and environmental integrity.
6. Resource Depletion and Environmental Risks:
• Impact: The rising demand for resources results in increased extraction, production, and consumption, contributing to
environmental stress.
• Risk Factors: Resource extraction and processing activities can lead to environmental disasters, such as oil spills,
deforestation, and habitat destruction, impacting ecosystems and biodiversity.
7. Social Vulnerability:
• Impact: Social vulnerability increases with population growth, particularly for marginalized or low-income communities.
• Risk Amplification: These communities often face challenges in accessing resources, information, and emergency services,
making them more susceptible to the impacts of disasters.
Module 3: Disaster management, Policy and Administration
3.1 Disaster management:
Meaning
•Disaster Management can be defined as the organization and management of resources and responsibilities for dealing with all
humanitarian aspects of emergencies, in particular preparedness, response and recovery in order to lessen the impact of disasters.
• It means that all such measures should be taken so that hazard cannot take the form of disaster. Since we cannot prevent the
coming of many natural hazards but can reduce their harmful effects through proper management, so that the loss of life and
property can be minimized. As we know, the present danger is not from the natural disasters, but are the human disasters.
• Disasters are the consequences of natural or human hazards. Therefore, through disaster management, we can prevent hazards
from being turned into a disaster. Disaster management broadly encompasses the management before, during and after a disaster.
It simply means planning of various steps to reduce the aftermath of a disaster, planning effective response system, planning
rehabilitation and also preparing disaster resilient communities in our very own layman language.
Concept
• The disaster management is a functioning authority which helps to control the disaster and reduce the general losses
• It includes sum total of all the activities i.e. programmes and measures which can be take up before during and after the
disaster with a given purpose of avoiding and reducing the impact and recovering from its losses
• The disaster management means, to manage the resources and to manage the responsibilities.
• This is carried to reduce the seriousness of the emergencies
• The work of the disaster management starts before the disaster, within the disaster and after the disaster also
The aspects of disaster management:
A. Disaster Prevention
B. Disaster Preparedness
C. Disaster Response
D. Disaster Mitigation
E. Rehabilitation of the people
F. Reconstruction of structures and infrastructures
Importance
Saving lives and reducing suffering:
• Early warning systems: Promptly alert communities about impending disasters, enabling evacuation and mitigation
measures.
• Preparedness and response: Trained emergency teams and coordinated efforts minimize casualties and provide
immediate relief.
• Post-disaster recovery: Support individuals and communities in rebuilding lives and infrastructure, preventing long-term
hardships.
Protecting infrastructure and economic stability:
• Mitigation measures: Fortify buildings, improve drainage systems, and reduce vulnerability to earthquakes, floods, etc.
• Business continuity plans: Minimize disruptions to economic activity and essential services after disasters.
• Risk reduction: Protect key infrastructure and resources, preventing costly repairs and economic losses.
Promoting healthy communities and environmental resilience:
• Reduced health risks: Address sanitation and hygiene issues post-disaster, prevent outbreaks of diseases.
• Protecting ecosystems: Implement measures to prevent environmental damage during and after disasters, ensuring long-
term sustainability.
• Building community resilience: Empower communities to prepare for and adapt to disasters, fostering self-reliance and
disaster preparedness.
objective of disaster management policy
• Disaster management is the responsibility of all spheres of government
• Disaster management should use resources that exist for a day to day purpose
• Organizations should function as an extension of their core business
• Individuals are responsible for their own safety
• Disaster management planning should focus on large scale events
Disaster risks in India
•India is among the world’s most disaster-prone countries with 27 of its 29 states and seven union territories exposed to recurrent
natural hazards such as cyclones, earthquakes, landslides, floods and droughts. Climate change and environmental degradation
have further compounded the frequency and intensity of disasters along with increasing the vulnerability of key assets including
people.
• A reality that is often overlooked in programme development and policy making is that children are the most at-risk from the
impact of natural disasters and conflicts.
• In five major natural disasters from 2000-2016 some 17,671 children lost their lives. The 2015-2016 drought in ten states affected
an estimated 330 million people, including 37 million children under age five.
• Many aspects of children’s lives are affected adversely including, but not limited to dropping out of school due to schools being
used for other purposes such as shelters during natural disasters, missing immunization due to disruption of health services and
the non-availability of nutritious food, clean water and sanitation facilities leading to malnourishment and diseases. In addition
during disasters there are also increased incidences of violence, exploitation and abuse as well as child marriage, trafficking and
child labour.
•Considering the frequency of recurrent floods, droughts, severe weather or conflict in different locations across India,
development results for women and children, particularly from marginalized communities, are adversely impacted or
compromised.
Paradigm shift in disaster management.
Paradigm shift is the change in the way of thinking. The transformation in thinking is fuelled by agents of change and occurs
through a process of evolution. Historically disaster management has been a reactive process. As disaster research evolved, it was
observed that it is often not possible to stop hazardous occurrences,but preventive measures can be taken to minimize the adverse
impacts of the hazards. The term ‘Disaster Risk Reduction’ is used to mention such measures. The paradigm shift in fact focuses on
implementing these risk reduction measures.
It is a shift in approach from
reactive approach where actions are taken after the disasters occur, e.g. providing humanitarian assistance, relief etc. to
proactive approach where holistic integrated planning and management of disaster is envisioned, e.g. building seismically
protected structures, creating legislations, frameworks and guidelines for disaster management, setting up of emergency operating
centers and response forces, generating a culture of prevention capacity building etc. In other words, it aims at addressing the root
causes of prospective disasters rather than addressing the stress and shocks arising after disasters.
3.2 Policy and administration:
Importance and principles of disaster management policies
The disaster management is recognised as a National level and as a local level priority. It is also taken as a continuous and
sustainable policy to fight at all the levels against any types of disaster during all the phases of disaster management
Command and co-ordination of in disaster management
• Like war, the disasters are also much unstructured in scope. No one can predict at what exact time and how a disaster will strike.
In democratic country like India, only the government is the solo organization who will act and take necessary actions to disaster. •
Thus any model for disaster management must follow the government rules and regulations.
• The central authority will take decision depending on the discussion with its subordinates, and that decision will be treated as a
command to all other leafs.
•Whenever there is a disaster, the command or actions to be taken is released by the government authority and pass to its lower
levels and different other organizations for implementation.
• The command is issued after collecting relevant information from them and its lower levels. The national disaster system may
employ detailed command and control.
• Subordinates are guided not by detailed instructions and control measures but by their knowledge of the requirements of the
overall mission.
• This C2 for disaster management decentralizes decision-making authority and grants subordinates significant freedom of action.
Coordination and Disaster Preparedness
• Coordination and collaboration in disaster management among public and private sector agencies and organizations at the
community, city, local, state, national, and even international levels have become increasingly urgent.
• Technological advances of early warning systems and the continuous improvement of these systems have facilitated and
supported agency coordination in the management of man-made and natural disasters in the State of Hawaii (HGICC, 2006).
• Disaster preparedness requires an understanding of various hazards, planning, coordination, an investment in continuous
training involving national standards, and leadership that supports collaboration at all levels of the existing decentralized system of
governance
• Coordination and control is a system that provides the oversight for all of the disaster management functions. The roles and
responsibilities of a coordination and control centre include: 1) planning; 2)maintenance of inventories; (3) activation of the
disaster response plan; (4) application of indicators of function; (5) surveillance; (6) information management; (7) coordination of
activities of the BSFs; (8) decision-making; (9) priority setting; (10) defining overarching goal and objectives for interventions; (11)
applying indicators of effectiveness; (12) applying indicators of benefit and impact; (13) exercising authority; (14) managing
resources; (15) initiating actions; (16) preventing influx of unneeded resources; (17) defining progress; (18) providing information;
(19) liasing with responding organisations; and (20) providing quality assurance.
•Coordination and control is impossible without communications. To accomplish coordination and control, three factors must be
present: (1) mandate; (2) power and authority; and (3) available resources.
Coordination and control is responsible for the evaluation of the effectiveness and benefits/impacts of all interventions
Rescue operations-how to start with and how to proceed in due course of time
Rescue operations in disaster management are critical for saving lives and providing immediate assistance to those affected by
natural or man-made disasters. The process involves a systematic approach and coordination among various stakeholders. Here's a
general guide on how to initiate and proceed with rescue operations:
1. Assessment and Preparedness: Pre-disaster Planning:
• Establish a robust disaster management plan that outlines roles, responsibilities, and communication protocols for
rescue operations.
• Conduct regular training and drills for rescue teams to ensure readiness.
2. Activation of Emergency Response: Alert and Activation:
• Activate the emergency response system as soon as the disaster occurs.
• Issue alerts and warnings to the affected population through various communication channels.
3. Communication and Coordination: Establish Communication Channels:
• Set up communication channels for effective coordination among rescue teams, emergency services, and relevant
authorities.
• Utilize radio, satellite communication, and other technologies for seamless communication.
4. Mobilization of Resources: Deploy Rescue Teams:
• Mobilize trained and equipped rescue teams to the affected areas.
• Ensure that rescue teams have access to necessary resources such as vehicles, medical supplies, and specialized
equipment.
5. Search and Rescue Operations:
• Initial Assessment:
• Conduct a rapid assessment to identify the scale of the disaster, affected areas, and potential hazards.
• Search Operations:
• Deploy search and rescue teams to locate and extract survivors from affected structures or hazardous areas.
• Prioritize areas based on the severity of the impact.
6. Medical Assistance: First Aid and Medical Care:
• Provide immediate first aid and medical care to survivors.
• Establish medical triage points to categorize and prioritize medical attention based on the severity of injuries.
7. Evacuation and Shelter: Evacuation Plans:
• Implement evacuation plans for areas at risk or where rescue operations are challenging.
• Establish temporary shelters for displaced individuals and provide basic necessities.
8. Logistics and Support: Logistical Support:
• Ensure a steady supply of food, water, and essential supplies for both survivors and rescue teams.
• Coordinate logistics for the efficient movement of resources and personnel.
9. Documentation and Reporting: Incident Documentation:
• Document the ongoing rescue operations, including the number of rescued individuals, medical conditions, and
resource utilization.
• Provide regular updates to relevant authorities and the public.
10. Recovery and Rehabilitation: Transition to Recovery:
• As the initial rescue phase concludes, transition efforts toward recovery and rehabilitation.
• Provide long-term support for rebuilding infrastructure, addressing psychological trauma, and restoring normalcy.
11. Evaluation and Learning: Post-Event Evaluation:
• Conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the rescue operations, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for
improvement.
• Use lessons learned to enhance future disaster response efforts.
study of flowchart showing the entire process.
Disaster Management Flowchart:
1. Actual Disaster Occurs:
• Trigger Event:
• Natural disaster (earthquake, flood,
hurricane, etc.) or man-made disaster
(industrial accident, terrorist attack, etc.).
2. Preparedness Phase:
• Risk Assessment:
• Identify potential hazards and assess risks
to the community or region.
• Preparedness Planning:
• Develop and implement disaster preparedness plans.
• Conduct training and drills for emergency response teams and the community.
• Establish communication protocols.
3. Mitigation Phase:
• Risk Reduction:
• Implement measures to reduce the impact of potential disasters (e.g., building codes, land-use planning).
• Develop and enforce regulations for safety and environmental protection.
• Infrastructure Development:
• Enhance infrastructure resilience to withstand disasters (e.g., retrofitting buildings, constructing levees).
• Implement early warning systems.
4. Response Phase:
• Activation of Emergency Response:
• Activate the emergency response system.
• Issue alerts and warnings to the affected population.
• Search and Rescue:
• Deploy search and rescue teams to locate and assist survivors.
• Provide emergency medical care and evacuation.
• Logistics and Coordination:
• Mobilize resources (personnel, equipment, supplies).
• Establish coordination centers for effective communication among response teams.
5. Recovery Phase:
• Assessment and Documentation:
• Assess the damage and document the extent of the disaster.
• Immediate Recovery:
• Provide temporary shelter, medical care, and essential services to survivors.
• Infrastructure Repair:
• Begin repairing and rebuilding damaged infrastructure.
• Restore basic services (water, electricity, transportation).
6. Mitigation and Learning:
• Long-Term Recovery:
• Implement long-term recovery plans for rebuilding communities.
• Address psychological and social impacts on the affected population.
• Lessons Learned:
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the response and recovery efforts.
• Identify areas for improvement and update preparedness plans.
Disaster Risk assessment is a process to determine the nature and extent of such risk, by analyzing hazards and evaluating existing
conditions of vulnerability that together could potentially harm exposed people, property, services, livelihoods and the
environment on which they depend. In this way, informed decisions can be made regarding steps to reduce the impacts of
disasters.
•A comprehensive risk assessment not only evaluates the magnitude and likelihood of potential losses in case of a disaster but also
provides full understanding of the causes and impact of those losses.
• Steps in Risk Assessment: Risk Assessment (RA) consists of the following steps:
1. Hazard Assessment:
In this section the researcher identifies the types of hazards that have occurred in the area in the past or can occur in the future.
This is usually the first step which then defines other steps because for each hazard, different tools and techniques are used for
analysis and assessment. Earthquakes, for example, require different instruments and specializations for analysis than e.g.
landslides or floods. The next steps are to find the frequency, seasonality, magnitude, intensity, extent and causes of the
occurrence of hazards.
2. Vulnerability Assessment:
This step is performed to determine the elements at risk, degree of vulnerability and the causes of the elements at risk. All
elements (people, building, resources etc) which are prone to the hazard are identified and an inventory is prepared. Then the
degree of their vulnerability is analysed and causes of their vulnerability are determined.
Critical facility analysis is also performed by determining the critical facilities (that play major role in daily routine life e.g. schools,
hospitals, mosques, civic centers etc.) at risk, causes of their vulnerabilities and analyzing historical records of hazard occurence in
the identified facilities.
3. Capacity Assessment:
Capacity assessment means to identify the strengths and resources available to reduce the level of risk, or the effects of a disaster.
In this step, resources of a community are evaluated by analyzing the available strengths like skills, expertise, equipment,
infrastructure etc. Then the availabilty of these reources is evaluated to know how soon these resources can be deployed and
become available to use. Another important step is to find out how durable and long lasting these resources are and what is the
level of their operational integrity (Ability to complete tasks without supervision).
4. People's perception of Risk:
The process of finding out the perceptions of heterogeneous groups in the community regarding the disasters, hazards and risks
that they are facing.
sea walls and embankments,
Bio shield,
shelters,
early warning and communication
6.3 Non Structural Mitigation:
Community based disaster preparedness
• Community Based Disaster Preparedness is a process of bringing people together within the same community to enable them to
collectively address a common disaster risk and to collectively pursue common disaster preparedness. Community Based Disaster
Preparedness is a process that mobilizes a group of people in a systematic way towards achieving a safe and resilient
community/group.
•Its end view is a dynamic community that equalizes power relations, binds the group cohesively in the process of making
decisions, deals with conflicts, resolves issues, and manages individual and collective tasks through addressing and bouncing back
from hazard events.
• The Community based Disaster Preparedness course provides an opportunity for field practitioners to learn essential skills and
knowledge in community based disaster preparedness to address implementation challenges in a systematic manner. The
participants will acquire tools and obtain knowledge on “how to” design and implement programs for reducing disaster risks and
vulnerability and building community capacity.
• Through exercises and simulations participants practice risk assessment and risk management planning, the participants will
have a chance to learn about globally acknowledged programs and projects on community based disaster preparedness from
leaders of these initiatives, with focus on examples from all over India.
• The course tackles the issues in disaster preparedness from a developmental perspective, discusses the issues and problems
concerning sustainability, replication/ adaptation of disaster preparedness practice and integration of risk management plans with
government and non-government development plans.
risk transfer and risk financing,
capacity development and training,
awareness and education,
contingency plans.
•A management process that analyses disaster risks and establishes arrangements in advance to enable timely, effective and
appropriate responses.
•Contingency planning results in organized and coordinated courses of action with clearly identified institutional roles and
resources, information processes and operational arrangements for specific actors at times of need. Based on scenarios of possible
emergency conditions or hazardous events, it allows key actors to envision, anticipate and solve problems that can arise during
disasters. Contingency planning is an important part of overall preparedness. Contingency plans need to be regularly updated and
exercised.
The following is a list of general objectives departments should consider when creating an Information Disaster Prevention and
Recovery Plan: • Ensure the safety of all employees and visitors at the site/facility • Protect vital information and records • Secure
business sites and facilities • Safeguard and make available vital materials, supplies and equipment to ensure the safety and
recovery of records from predictable disasters • Reduce the risk of disasters caused by human error, deliberate destruction, and
building or equipment failures • Be better prepared to recover from a major natural catastrophe • Ensure the organization's ability
to continue operating after a disaster • Recover lost or damaged records or information after a disaster
6.4 Do‘s and don‘ts in case of disasters and effective implementation of relief aids.
During Earthquake
•DROP, COVER & HOLD Stay away from windows, bookcases, bookshelves, heavy mirrors, hanging plants, fans and other heavy
objects. Stay under 'cover' till the shaking stops.
•After tremors subside exit your home or school building and move to open fields.
•Do not push others.
During Flood
•DO NOT WALK THROUGH FLOWING WATER Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. Most of these drownings occur
during flash floods. Six inches of swiftly moving water can knock you off your feet. And use a pole or stick to make sure that the
ground is still there while walking through a flooded area, even where the water is not flowing.
DO NOT DRIVE THROUGH A FLOODED AREA
More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don't drive around road barriers. They are there for a reason. The road or
bridge may be washed out.
During Fire
• BEFORE: The schools to be given license only after checking up its safety.
• The schools must have sufficient exit routes.
• DURING: Exit from the school to an open area.
• Contain the fire if possible. If not , get outdoors immediately.
• AFTER: DON'T Re- enter or permit anyone to enter the school building , unless the fire officials have given permission to enter.
• Teachers to confirm that all students have reached their homes safely.
During a Landslides
• Stay alert and awake.Many debris-flow fatalities occur when people are sleeping. Listen to a Weather Radio or portable, battery-
powered radio or television for warnings of intense rainfall.
•Be aware that intense, short burst of rain may be particularly dangerous, especially after longer periods of heavy rainfall and
damp weather.
December 2022
1. Define the terms: Hazard, Vulnerability, Risk
Hazard: A hazard refers to any potential source of harm or adverse event that has the capability to cause damage, destruction, or
harm to people, property, or the environment. Hazards can be natural, such as earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes, or they can be
human-made, including industrial accidents or conflicts.
Vulnerability: Vulnerability is the degree of susceptibility or inability of a community, system, or individual to cope with the
adverse impacts of a hazard. It encompasses factors such as socio-economic conditions, infrastructure, and the availability of
resources that influence the ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from a hazard.
Risk: Risk is the likelihood of harmful consequences or the probability of occurrence of a hazard, considering the vulnerabilities of
the exposed elements. It is often expressed as a combination of the hazard's probability and the potential severity of its impact.
Risk assessment helps in understanding and managing the potential negative outcomes associated with hazards.
6. What are different types of floods? enlist structural mitigation measures for flood
Floods, the inundation of land by water, pose a significant threat to communities worldwide. These powerful and often
unpredictable events can cause immense damage to property, disrupt livelihoods, and unfortunately, claim lives. To effectively
manage flood risks, it's crucial to understand the diverse types of floods and the structural mitigation measures we can
implement.
Types of Floods:
1. Riverine Floods: The most common type, caused by rivers overflowing their banks due to heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or
storm surges.
2. Flash Floods: Rapid flooding caused by intense rainfall in a short period, usually occurring in small catchments or urban
areas with poor drainage.
3. Coastal Floods: Caused by storm surges, high tides, or tsunamis, leading to inundation of coastal areas.
4. Urban Floods: Poor drainage infrastructure in urban areas can overwhelm storm sewers during heavy rainfall, causing
localized flooding.
5. Agricultural Floods: Excessive irrigation or poor water management in agricultural lands can lead to flooding, affecting
crops and livelihoods.
Structural Mitigation Measures:
1. Dams and levees: Large engineered structures designed to control river flow and prevent it from overflowing its
banks. While effective in some cases, they can have impacts on ecosystems and downstream communities.
2. Floodwalls: Vertical barriers along riverbanks or coastlines to block floodwaters.
3. Retention ponds and basins: Designed to temporarily store excess water during floods, reducing pressure on drainage
systems and mitigating downstream flooding.
4. Diversion channels: Can divert floodwaters away from vulnerable areas towards safer locations.
5. Channel improvements: Removing debris and vegetation from river channels can improve flow and reduce flooding risks.
6. Flood-proofing buildings: Raising structures above flood levels, sealing doors and windows, and using flood-resistant
materials can protect buildings from flood damage.
7. Green infrastructure: Utilizing natural methods like wetlands, parks, and green roofs to absorb and store
rainwater, reducing runoff and flooding risks.
7. Explain the types of landslide and factors affecting them. Give a case study for the same.
Landslides, the downslope movement of rock, debris, or earth under the influence of gravity, pose a significant threat to
communities worldwide. These often sudden events can cause extensive damage to infrastructure, disrupt livelihoods, and
tragically, claim lives. To understand and mitigate landslide risk, it's crucial to identify the different types and the factors that
contribute to their occurrence.
Types of Landslides:
1. Falls: Rock or debris falling from cliffs or steep slopes, often triggered by weathering, erosion, or earthquakes.
2. Slides: Rotational slides involve a coherent block of soil or rock rotating as it moves downslope, while translational slides
occur when a layer of material slides over an underlying layer.
3. Flows: Debris flows resemble mudflows, consisting of rapidly moving mixtures of water, soil, rock, and organic
matter. Landslide flows can travel long distances and be highly destructive.
4. Creep: Slow, continuous downslope movement of soil or rock, often imperceptible but gradually altering the landscape.
Factors Affecting Landslides:
1. Geology: The type of rock or soil, its permeability, and slope stability play a crucial role. Weak, weathered rocks and steep
slopes are more susceptible to landslides.
2. Water: Heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and rising groundwater levels can saturate the soil, reducing its cohesion and triggering
landslides.
3. Vegetation: Forests and plant cover help stabilize slopes and absorb water, reducing landslide risk. Deforestation can
significantly increase the vulnerability to landslides.
4. Seismic activity: Earthquakes can shake loose soil and rock masses, triggering landslides even on relatively stable slopes.
5. Human activities: Infrastructure development, excavation, and changes in drainage patterns can alter the natural stability
of slopes and contribute to landslides.
Case Study: Kerala Floods and Landslides 2018:
In August 2018, Kerala, India, experienced unprecedented monsoon rains, triggering widespread landslides and flash floods. Over
400 people lost their lives, and thousands were displaced as hillsides collapsed and debris flows ravaged entire villages. This tragic
event showcased the devastating impact of multiple factors acting in concert:
• Heavy rainfall: Kerala received over 300% of its average rainfall in just a few weeks, saturating the soil and exceeding the
drainage capacity of the hilly terrain.
• Steep slopes: The Western Ghats, with their steep slopes and fragile geology, were particularly vulnerable to landslides.
• Deforestation: Extensive deforestation and land use changes had weakened the slopes and reduced their ability to
withstand heavy rainfall.
• Inadequate drainage: Poor drainage infrastructure exacerbated the waterlogging, further destabilizing the hillsides.
8. What are different government agencies responsible for various types of disasters?
1. Natural Disasters:
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Overall coordination for all types of natural disasters, including
hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, and wildfires. Provides financial assistance, coordinates emergency response, and leads
recovery efforts.
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): Monitors weather patterns, issues warnings and forecasts, and
provides critical data for disaster preparedness and response.
• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS): Tracks earthquake and volcanic activity, assesses risks, and provides scientific data for
disaster preparedness and response.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Provides flood control, emergency repairs to infrastructure, and debris removal in the
aftermath of natural disasters.
2. Technological Disasters:
• Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC): Oversees the safety and security of nuclear power plants, responds to
incidents, and develops regulations for preventing and mitigating nuclear accidents.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Responds to chemical spills, hazardous material releases, and other
environmental emergencies, working to protect public health and the environment.
• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Coordinates response to aircraft accidents and incidents, investigates causes, and
develops safety regulations for the aviation industry.
3. Public Health Emergencies:
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Leads the response to outbreaks of infectious diseases, natural
disasters, and other public health emergencies. Provides guidance and resources to state and local health departments.
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Ensures the safety and effectiveness of food, drugs, and medical devices during
public health emergencies.
• Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): Coordinates the federal government's response to public health
emergencies, providing medical care, supplies, and other resources to affected communities.
4. Man-Made Disasters:
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Investigates major crimes and acts of terrorism, provides resources and expertise to
local law enforcement during emergencies.
• Department of Homeland Security (DHS): Coordinates preparedness and response to a wide range of threats, including
terrorism, cybersecurity attacks, and infrastructure disruptions.
• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF): Responds to bomb threats and explosives incidents, provides
technical assistance to local law enforcement
10. Discuss the role of GIS and remote sensing in disaster management
GIS and Remote Sensing: Powerful Tools for Disaster Management
In the face of increasingly frequent and complex natural disasters, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing
technologies have emerged as invaluable tools for disaster management. By providing accurate, real-time data and spatial analysis
capabilities, these technologies empower responders to make informed decisions, saving lives and minimizing damage.
Disaster preparedness:
• Hazard mapping: GIS and remote sensing data can be used to identify areas prone to floods, landslides, earthquakes, and
other hazards. This information allows for evacuation planning, infrastructure reinforcement, and public awareness
campaigns.
• Vulnerability assessment: By overlaying population density, infrastructure, and environmental data, GIS can pinpoint
communities most vulnerable to disasters. This helps prioritize resource allocation and develop targeted preparedness
plans.
• Early warning systems: Real-time satellite data and sensor networks can detect impending disasters like flooding or
volcanic eruptions, triggering timely evacuation alerts and emergency response protocols.
Disaster response:
• Damage assessment: Satellite imagery and aerial photography provide rapid and comprehensive assessments of disaster
damage, helping to identify areas needing immediate assistance and prioritize resource allocation.
• Search and rescue: High-resolution imagery and mapping tools can aid in locating survivors trapped in debris or remote
areas, guiding rescue teams to their exact locations.
• Resource management: GIS platforms can optimize the deployment of emergency personnel, vehicles, and
supplies, ensuring efficient and effective response during critical hours.
Disaster recovery:
• Monitoring and evaluation: Tracking the progress of reconstruction efforts and identifying areas lagging behind in
recovery is crucial. GIS provides an effective platform for data visualization and analysis, informing further action.
• Risk reduction planning: Post-disaster analysis helps identify factors that contributed to the severity of the event. This
information feeds into long-term planning for risk reduction measures and infrastructure improvements.
• Climate change adaptation: As climate change intensifies weather patterns, GIS and remote sensing play a crucial role in
monitoring long-term trends and developing adaptation strategies for future disasters.
12. What is role of NGOs in disaster management? Enlist major NGOs working on disaster management
The Vital Role of NGOs in Disaster Management
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in disaster management, complementing and often exceeding the
reach of governmental efforts. Their contributions cover various stages of disaster response and mitigation, including:
Pre-disaster:
• Vulnerability assessment: Identifying communities and areas most susceptible to different hazards.
• Disaster preparedness: Training communities on early warning systems, evacuation plans, and risk reduction strategies.
• Public awareness campaigns: Educating people about hazard risks and responsible behavior during disasters.
• Advocacy: Pushing for policies and legislation that enhance disaster resilience and sustainable development.
During disaster:
• Rapid emergency response: Providing immediate relief like food, water, shelter, and medical assistance to affected
communities.
• Search and rescue operations: Locating and rescuing survivors trapped in debris or inaccessible areas.
• Coordination and communication: Bridging the gap between communities, government agencies, and other organizations
to ensure effective response.
Post-disaster:
• Reconstruction and rehabilitation: Supporting long-term rebuilding efforts, restoring infrastructure, and reviving
livelihoods.
• Psychosocial support: Providing counseling and mental health services to trauma survivors.
• Capacity building: Training communities on disaster preparedness and resilience strategies for future events.
Major NGOs Working on Disaster Management:
• World Vision International: A global humanitarian organization focusing on child well-being, with extensive experience in
disaster relief and recovery.
• CARE International: Leading humanitarian organization empowering women and girls, actively involved in disaster
preparedness and response operations.
• Mercy Corps: Global organization focused on building resilient communities, providing emergency relief and long-term
recovery support in disaster zones.
• International Rescue Committee (IRC): Emergency response organization providing medical care, water, sanitation, and
protection services to vulnerable populations affected by conflict and natural disasters.
• Doctors Without Borders (MSF): Independent medical humanitarian organization providing medical care to people in
conflict zones and natural disasters.
• Oxfam: International development organization working to reduce poverty and inequality, also actively involved in
disaster relief and reconstruction efforts.
These are just a few examples, and countless other NGOs work tirelessly at local, national, and international levels to support
disaster management efforts.
Advantages of NGOs in Disaster Management:
• Flexibility and agility: NGOs can quickly adapt to changing situations and reach remote areas inaccessible to larger
organizations.
• Community-based approach: NGOs often work closely with local communities, building trust and understanding specific
needs and vulnerabilities.
• Innovation and expertise: NGOs can introduce innovative solutions and leverage specialized skills to address complex
disaster challenges.
Challenges faced by NGOs:
• Funding constraints: Access to sustainable funding can be a challenge for NGOs, limiting their operational scope and long-
term impact.
• Coordination with government agencies: Efficient collaboration with governmental efforts is crucial for maximizing impact
and avoiding duplication of efforts.
• Capacity building and training: Ensuring adequate resources and training for NGO personnel to effectively respond to
complex disaster situations.
The role of NGOs in disaster management is undeniably significant. They bridge the gap between communities and government
agencies, offer innovative solutions, and ensure immediate and long-term support to those affected by disasters. Recognizing their
contributions and fostering an enabling environment for their work is vital for building a more resilient and prepared world.
13. Explain BIO shield and sea wall in detail with schematic diagram
BIO Shield:
• Nature-based solution: Utilizes living organisms and natural processes to mitigate coastal erosion and stabilize shorelines.
• Components: Typically involves planting salt-tolerant vegetation like mangroves, seagrasses, and oyster reefs. These act as
living breakwaters, absorbing wave energy and reducing erosion.
• Benefits: Provides additional ecosystem services like improved water quality, habitat creation for marine life, and carbon
sequestration.
• Limitations: Requires careful planning and monitoring for long-term success. May not be suitable for all coastlines or
provide immediate protection against extreme weather events.
Schematic Diagram of a BIO Shield:
Sea Wall:
• Hard engineering solution: Consists of a physical barrier, often made of concrete or stone, erected along the coastline to
deflect waves and prevent erosion.
• Components: Can vary in design and size, ranging from vertical walls to sloping revetments.
• Benefits: Offers immediate and predictable protection against coastal erosion.
• Limitations: Can be expensive to build and maintain. Disrupts natural coastal processes and can lead to ecological
damage. May exacerbate erosion down-drift as wave energy gets redirected.
Schematic Diagram of a Sea Wall:
14. What is community base disaster management (CBDM)? Discuss how it is useful in Indian scenario
What is CBDM?
Community-Based Disaster Management (CBDM) is a collaborative approach to disaster management that empowers local
communities to identify, assess, and manage risks before, during, and after disasters. It emphasizes local knowledge, indigenous
practices, and community participation to build resilience and reduce the impact of natural hazards.
Key Pillars of CBDM:
• Vulnerability assessment: Communities work together to identify vulnerable areas and populations within their region.
• Early warning systems: Local communication networks and monitoring systems are established to warn residents about
impending disasters.
• Disaster preparedness: Communities develop evacuation plans, first-aid training, and stockpile vital resources for
emergencies.
• Response and recovery: Local volunteers are trained to provide immediate assistance during disasters and participate in
post-disaster rebuilding efforts.
Benefits of CBDM in the Indian Scenario:
• Improved disaster preparedness: Communities can tailor their strategies to specific local risks and needs, leading to more
effective preparedness measures.
• Faster response times: Local residents familiar with the terrain and potential dangers can act quickly and efficiently during
emergencies.
• Enhanced resilience: Building on traditional knowledge and local resources fosters long-term resilience and promotes
sustainable recovery.
• Cost-effectiveness: CBDM leverages existing resources and community initiatives, making it a more affordable approach
than top-down disaster management.
• Social cohesion: Community involvement fosters cooperation, trust, and social solidarity, strengthening the fabric of
Indian society.
Challenges and Considerations:
• Capacity building: Communities may require training and resources to effectively implement CBDM practices.
• Sustainability: Maintaining long-term commitment and funding for CBDM initiatives can be challenging.
• Integration with government strategies: Ensuring effective coordination between community efforts and governmental
response plans is crucial.
Examples of CBDM in India:
• Odisha's cyclone preparedness model: Odisha's community-driven early warning systems and evacuation plans have
drastically reduced cyclone-related fatalities.
• Madhya Pradesh's Van Vigyan Kendras: These community-based scientific centers promote sustainable resource
management and disaster risk reduction practices.
• Himachal Pradesh's Mahila Mandals: These women's groups play a crucial role in disaster preparedness and response in
the state.
15. what are Do’s and Don’ts in earthquake. Tsunami and cyclone?
Earthquake
Do's:
• Drop, Cover, and Hold: When the shaking starts, immediately take cover under a sturdy desk or table, or if that's not
available, crouch against an interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Stay there until the shaking
stops.
• Evacuate if necessary: If you're indoors, stay inside until the shaking stops and it's safe to go outside. If you're
outdoors, move away from buildings, power lines, trees, and other hazards. Head for open space like a park or field.
• Check for injuries and damage: Once the shaking stops, check yourself and others for injuries. Be cautious of falling debris
and downed power lines.
• Listen to official information: Pay attention to radio or TV broadcasts for official updates and instructions from emergency
responders. Don't rely on rumors or social media for information.
• Help others: If you're trained in first aid, help those who are injured.
Don'ts:
• Don't run outside: Stay indoors or take cover unless you're in immediate danger from falling debris or other hazards.
• Don't use elevators: Take the stairs instead. Elevators may be out of service or become trapped during an earthquake.
• Don't light matches or candles: Open flames could ignite gas leaks or spilled flammable liquids.
• Don't panic: Stay calm and collected. Panicking can cloud your judgment and make it harder to make good decisions.
• Don't spread rumours: Stick to verified information from official sources.
Tsunami
Do's:
• Move to higher ground immediately: If you feel an earthquake or hear a tsunami warning, head for higher ground (at least
30 feet above sea level or 100 feet inland) as quickly as possible. Don't wait for an official warning, especially if you're near
the coast.
• Evacuate inland: Don't stop at the first signs of rising water. Keep moving inland until you're well above the expected wave
height.
• Listen to official information: Pay attention to radio or TV broadcasts for official updates and instructions from emergency
responders.
• Stay informed: Familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation routes and procedures in your area before a disaster strikes.
Don'ts:
• Don't go near the beach or ocean: Stay away from the coast, even if you think the danger has passed. Tsunami waves can
arrive in multiple cycles, and even small waves can be dangerous.
• Don't try to outrun the wave: Tsunamis can travel at hundreds of miles per hour, making it impossible to outrun them on
foot or in a car.
• Don't return home too early: Stay evacuated until official authorities say it's safe to return. Tsunami debris can pose
hazards long after the waves have passed.
Cyclone
Do's:
• Stay informed: Monitor weather reports and listen to official warnings from emergency responders.
• Prepare your home: Secure loose objects outdoors that could become projectiles in strong winds. Board up windows if
necessary.
• Evacuate if necessary: If you're in an area that is expected to be directly hit by the cyclone, evacuate to a designated
shelter or safe location inland.
• Have a disaster kit ready: This should include food, water, first-aid supplies, important documents, and other essential
items that will last you for several days.
• Stay inside during the storm: Do not go outside unless absolutely necessary.
Don'ts:
• Don't ignore evacuation orders: If officials tell you to evacuate, do so immediately. Don't wait until the storm is upon you.
• Don't drive through flooded areas: Turn around, don't drown. Flooded roads can be dangerous and hide hidden hazards.
• Don't use candles or open flames: Power outages are common during cyclones. Use battery-powered lighting instead of
candles or open flames to avoid the risk of fire.
• Don't go sightseeing: Stay away from the storm surge and damaged areas until it's safe to return.