NATURAL HAZARDS AND DISASTERS: CAUSES, CONSEQUENCES AND MANAGEMENT | Class 11 Geography Notes

Classification of Natural Hazards

Natural hazards are classified based on their origin into four broad categories: geological, hydrological, meteorological, and biological hazards. Geological hazards include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and avalanches, which originate from the Earth's internal processes such as tectonic movements and volcanic activity. Hydrological hazards involve water-related events like floods, droughts, and tsunamis, often linked to climatic factors and water cycle disturbances. Meteorological hazards are caused by atmospheric processes and include cyclones, storms, heatwaves, and cold waves. Biological hazards arise from the spread of diseases, pest attacks, and epidemics, often linked to ecological imbalances. This classification helps in understanding the nature, causes, and impacts of hazards and aids in developing specific management strategies for each type.

📊 Diagram: Diagram showing classification of natural hazards into four categories with examples under each category.

🧪 Activity: No specific activity in this section.

🔗 Connection: Prepares the reader for detailed study of each hazard type in subsequent sections.