Navagations

According to the UN, “By 2030, half the world’s population will be exposed to flooding, storms [and] tsunamis.” “Natural Disaster” is a common term used to describe catastrophes such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions; using this term implies that the disaster is merely the result of environmental factors and overlooks the role humans play. Despite the inevitability of natural hazards, a population’s level of vulnerability, preparedness, and exposure determines whether a disaster will occur as a result of the hazard. 

When hazards occur, infrastructure contributes to the vulnerability of a community. For example, due to the lack of preventative measures for earthquake-resistant buildings, many structures collapsed in Turkey after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck the country. Meanwhile, a similar earthquake in Chile had considerably less of an impact due to the construction of aseismic (earthquake-resistant) structures, which prepared the community for earthquakes. 

Valparaiso, a Chilean port city built along the coastline, serves as another example of a community vulnerable to natural hazards—and to human complacence. This city’s coastal location exposes it to high-risk flood zones, where a tsunami would cause significant damage.  A significant percentage of the population relies on stable weather for their livelihood. Flooding would harm crops and the stability of farmers’ markets, limiting residents’ sources of food, and preventing farmers from sustaining a steady income.  

Yet, despite its high risk and vulnerability, the town is highly prepared in the event of a tsunami. The Chilean Navy is headquartered there and is constantly monitoring tsunami threats. The navy’s operations room and high-tech equipment allow them to monitor seismic waves, establish efficient warning systems, and collaborate with stations internationally in the event of an emergency. This preparedness allows Chileans to access real-time information and theoretically gives them enough advanced warning to get to safety. 

Hazards are unpreventable, but their impacts on communities are not. Using the word “natural” disregards the role humans play in disasters and suggests a tragedy is unavoidable in the event of a hazard. The terminology shapes how disasters are processed and their relation to climate change caused by humans: the idea of a natural disaster might inhibit nations from taking responsibility which in turn prevents them from taking action. Taking a more nuanced approach to natural disasters and spreading awareness allows us all to be better prepared.