Disasters are extreme ecologic phenomena that have a significant impact on people and communities. They kill tens to hundreds of thousands each year, force millions of people to flee their homes and disrupt access to basic needs such as food, water and shelter. They also impose substantial economic costs, particularly in developing countries.
A natural disaster is any event caused by nature, including weather events like floods, droughts and cyclones, and volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis. But even if a disaster is not life-threatening, it can still have long-lasting effects on human communities. It can lead to loss of property and jobs, and affect the ability of families and organizations to provide services for the community.
In addition, they can cause psychological distress for the affected people. They may experience anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping and depression-like symptoms. People can also suffer from the environmental damage caused by the disaster, such as deforestation, soil erosion and water contamination.
Aside from natural disasters, there are man-made disasters which include intentional (intention-al) or accidental accidents. Man-made disasters have a big impact on the environment and society, and they can be as damaging as natural disasters.