Question

Natural disasters plague all areas of the world. In North America, the western coast of the United States experiences earthquakes, while the interior of the country is at risk for tornados. Areas of East Asia endure typhoons. Volcanic eruptions threaten places as far apart as Italy, Hawaii, Chile, and the Congo. What causes certain disasters to occur in certain areas? Which of the physical factors that you’ve studied impact the development of natural disasters the most?

Answer 1

Earthquakes and tsunamis are caused by pressure building up in the Earth's crust along the intersection of tectonic plates, while tornadoes are created by updrafts and downdrafts interacting with wind.