Read definitions of natural disasters and name them.
a large mass of snow falling down the side of a mountain
an extremely violent wind or storm
large amount of water that covers an area which is usually dry
a huge wave caused by an earthquake which flows onto land
a period of time with no rain
Avalanche: This is the natural disaster described as a large mass of snow falling down the side of a mountain. Avalanches occur when a layer of snow collapses and slides downhill. They can be triggered by natural causes, such as new snow or wind, or by human activities, like skiing. Avalanches are particularly dangerous because they can happen very quickly and with little warning, potentially trapping people or destroying structures in their path.
Hurricane (or Cyclone/Typhoon): An extremely violent wind or storm is typically referred to as a hurricane, cyclone, or typhoon, depending on where it occurs in the world. These powerful storms are characterized by strong winds, heavy rain, and can cause significant damage to coastal areas due to storm surges and flooding. Hurricanes form over warm ocean waters and can impact large areas, leading to widespread destruction and the need for emergency preparations.
Flood: A large amount of water that covers an area which is usually dry is known as a flood. Floods can result from heavy rainfall, river overflow, or coastal storm surges. They can cause significant property damage, disrupt communities, and pose serious safety risks. Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters and can vary in severity from minor to catastrophic, depending on the geography and infrastructure of the affected area.
Tsunami: A huge wave caused by an earthquake which flows onto land is called a tsunami. Tsunamis are typically generated by undersea earthquakes that displace large volumes of water. These waves can travel across entire ocean basins and, upon reaching shallow coastal areas, they rise dramatically, causing widespread devastation. Tsunamis are particularly dangerous because they can strike with little warning and with great force, leading to loss of life and property.
Drought: A period of time with no rain is referred to as a drought. Droughts are prolonged periods of insufficient rainfall that result in water shortages, affecting agriculture, drinking water supplies, and the environment. Droughts can have severe economic, social, and environmental impacts, especially in regions that rely heavily on agriculture. They can lead to crop failures, increased fire risk, and water rationing, posing significant challenges for affected communities.
