Disaster Analysis: Fatalities and Mitigation

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Considering the provided data, which type of disaster appears to have the highest potential for causing fatalities, based on the single events listed?

Heat Waves
Cyclones/Hurricanes
Droughts (correct)
Earthquakes

How did the magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Armenia compare to the Gujarat, India earthquake of the same magnitude in terms of fatalities?

The provided data does not offer any information about these earthquakes.
The Armenia earthquake resulted in significantly fewer fatalities. (correct)
The Gujarat earthquake resulted in significantly fewer fatalities.
Both earthquakes caused approximately the same number of fatalities.

What conclusion can be drawn about the relationship between the magnitude of an earthquake and the number of fatalities it causes, based on the data provided?

Magnitude is the sole determining factor in the number of fatalities.
There appears to be an inverse relationship; higher magnitude earthquakes result in fewer fatalities due to better infrastructure.
The number of fatalities depends on a variety of factors, not solely on the earthquake's magnitude. (correct)
There is a strong positive correlation; higher magnitude earthquakes always cause more fatalities.

Which statement best explains the difference in the number of fatalities between the 1985 Mexico City earthquake (M=8.1) and the 2005 Pakistan earthquake (M=7.6)?

Factors other than magnitude, such as building construction and population density, likely contributed to the difference in fatalities. (C) Signup and view all the answers

If resources were limited and you could only focus on mitigating the impact of one type of natural disaster, which would you prioritize based solely on minimizing potential fatalities according to the listed events?

Earthquakes (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best illustrates the difference between a natural hazard and a natural disaster?

A natural hazard is a condition with the potential for a damaging event, whereas a natural disaster is the catastrophic realization of that potential. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is mitigation considered a crucial aspect in the context of natural hazards and disasters?

Mitigation involves planning, preparedness, and construction codes to reduce the severity of natural disasters. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What conclusion can be drawn from the data regarding human fatalities from natural disasters between 1900 and 1965?

Floods, droughts, and subsequent famines were responsible for the highest numbers of fatalities during this period. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the sawtooth-shaped curve representing human fatalities from natural disasters indicate?

The sporadic nature of large natural disasters that cause significant spikes in fatalities. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which geographic factor most significantly contributes to the high number of fatalities in mega-killer disasters?

High population density. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between economic/political factors and death totals from natural disasters?

Poorer communities are disproportionately affected by natural disasters due to inadequate infrastructure and response systems. (D) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of responses to natural disasters, what is the significance of human actions like donating and volunteering?

These actions represent crucial social support mechanisms that complement official relief efforts and aid in community recovery. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Considering the information, what is the most effective long-term strategy for reducing the impact of natural disasters on human populations?

Implementing comprehensive mitigation measures, coupled with robust economic development and stable governance. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Drought

A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to a shortage of water.

Earthquake

A sudden and violent shaking of the ground, caused by movements within the Earth's crust or volcanic action.