Hazard Geography Definitions Flashcards
(14 cards)
Define Hazard Geography
The study of natural and ecological hazards.
Define natural disasters
A natural disaster is the very harmful impact on a society or community after a natural hazard event. E.g. bushfires. Earthquakes, floods
Define atmospheric hazards
Created from atmosphere and/or weather processes. E.g. storms, heatwaves, bushfires
Define hydrological hazards
Driven by processes in the water circle. E.g. floods, blizzards, tsunamis
Define geomorphic hazards
Hazards created by movement of the Earth’s surface or crust. E.g. earthquakes, tsunamis.
Define ecological hazards
A biological or chemical hazard that has the potential to impact on the wellbeing of people or the environment.
What is Spatial Distribution
Spatial distribution refers to how features or objects are arranged on the Earth’s surface (clustered, uniform, random)
What is Temporal Distribution
Temporal distribution is the distribution of these hazards over time and how long these hazard events may typically last.
What is magnitude
the measurement of the strength and intensity of a hazard.
What is Duration
Refers to the length of time that a hazard event lasts.
What is Frequency
The number of times an area experiences a hazard.
What is Probability
Levels of uncertainty surrounding the timing and occurrence of both natural and ecological hazards.
What is spatial impact
Also known as the extent. The type of hazard will determine it/ The scale of spatial impact will contribute to the impact on human settlement.
Explain the concepts of mitigation and prepardness in relation to hazard risk management:
- Hazard mitigation planning reduces loss of life and property by minimizing the impact of disasters. It begins with state, tribal and local governments identifying natural disaster risks and vulnerabilities that are common in their area.
- Preparedness – making arrangements, creating and testing plans, training, educating and sharing information to prepare communities should an emergency eventuate
