11 Facts About Disasters
- Over the past decade, about 258 million people have been affected by natural disasters worldwide every year.
- Caused by an undersea earthquake in the Indian Ocean, the 2004 tsunami was the deadliest in history. More than 225,000 people were killed in 11 countries and communities along the coast were flooded by 100 foot waves.
- A destructive tsunami hits the West Coast of the United States about once every 18 years.
- Every year an average of 10,000 people die because of earthquakes.
- Doorways are one of the safest places to be during an earthquake because they are usually reinforced and will be the best protection from falling debris. Hold on until the quake is completely over (most casualties occur during after shocks).
- A tropical storm becomes a hurricane when the speed of its winds goes over 74 mph.
- Storm surges (the huge waves created during a hurricane) are usually more dangerous than the strong winds and storms.
- Floods account for about 46% of disaster-related deaths in the Americas.
- It is more difficult to find clean water than food after a water-related disaster because water supplies become contaminated.
- Tornadoes can form anywhere in the US. Their average size is about 660 feet wide.
- The best place to find shelter during a tornado is in a room without windows and doors.
Sources
Reuters Foundation
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
National Geographic
United States Department of Homeland Security
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