This book discusses the natural disasters we can see on the planet, the problems they pose for society, and the steps that can be taken to prepare for and respond to these catastrophes. The discussion in the book will start with some historical views on plate tectonics, and then discuss the internal issues that result from these plate movements and interactions, earthquakes and volcanic activity. From there, the discussion will switch to the disasters that we can encounter at the surface. These are tsunamis, floods, mass wasting, soils and subsidence, wildfires, and coastal erosion. Once done with the surface disasters, we will move to the disasters associated with atmospheric processes, which include cyclones, severe weather, and the future based on the issues associated with climate change.
