Disaster Day is observed every year on February 5. It is a day to raise awareness about the different types of disasters that can and have occurred and the implications they have on the world and its beings. Disaster Day also highlights the importance of disaster management and the training that is necessary to tackle it.
History of Disaster Day
A disaster is a major event that occurs over a short or long period and results in widespread human, material, an economic, or environmental loss that exceeds the affected community’s or society’s ability to deal with using its own resources. Disasters, regardless of the environment in which they occur, tend to cause changes in government and public life. It is impossible to determine a date of origin for disasters, but it is safe to say that disasters have existed in some shape or form since the beginning of time.Disasters are commonly divided into two broad categories — natural disasters and man-made disasters. A natural disaster is a natural process or occurrence that can result in death, injury, or other health consequences, as well as property destruction, loss of livelihoods and services, social and economic disruption, and environmental harm. Natural disasters such as earthquakes, landslides, volcanic eruptions, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, tsunamis, cyclones, wildfires, and pandemics kill thousands of people each year and destroy billions of dollars in habitat and property. Unfortunately, disasters have become more frequent and severe as a result of the rapid world population growth and growing concentration in dangerous settings. Non-engineered constructions make disaster-prone places more vulnerable due to the tropical temperature, unstable landforms, and deforestation.Man-made disasters are the result of technical or human-caused risks. War, civil unrest, stampedes, fires, transportation accidents, industrial accidents, conflicts, oil spills, terrorist attacks, and nuclear explosions/radiation are just a few examples. Some argue that to an extent, all disasters are man-made as they are caused by humans’ failure to implement effective emergency management systems. For instance, while drought, flood, fire, or illness could cause famine locally, in modern times there is enough food available globally. The chronic localized shortages are usually the result of government mismanagement, violent conflict, or an economic system that fails to deliver food where it is needed. Similarly, earthquakes are mostly dangerous because of human-made buildings and dams; and avoiding tsunamis and landslides caused by earthquakes therefore largely depends on location.Each disaster has its causes, consequences, and preventative methods. They also call for different sets of responses to them. Disaster Day, observed every year on February 5, shines a light on these disasters and encourages increased awareness and preparedness for the same.
Disaster Day timeline
A devastating famine strikes the Bengal region and affects around 30 million people.
Also known as the 1931 Yangtze–Huai River floods, it results in approximately four million fatalities.
A multi-year drought occurs, causing several secondary disasters and covering 45% of the United States at its peak.
One of the worst storms occurs in southern Vietnam, resulting in thousands of deaths and leaving behind extensive damage.
Disaster Day FAQs
What are the main types of disasters?
The three main types of disasters are natural, man-made, and hybrid disasters.
What are the main effects of disasters?
Disasters majorly affect the population, economy, and environment.
What are the main causes of disasters?
Disasters are caused by a wide array of things — it depends on the type of disaster that it is.
How to Observe Disaster Day
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Know about disasters
The first and most crucial step to disaster prevention and management is awareness. Take the day to familiarize yourself with the different types of disasters and determine which ones your area and community are most vulnerable to.
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Learn about responses
Each disaster comes with its own effects and consequences. Some specific techniques and guidelines are to be followed for the management and prevention of disasters. Learn about these response tactics and see which ones you need to know thoroughly for your safety.
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Walk through history
There have been some intense and devastating disasters in the past that have altered the state of the world and mankind. Knowing about them is important to know why things are the way they are today and what could happen if more such disasters were to occur.
5 Not So Fun Facts About Natural Disasters
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They are costly
2012 was the third consecutive year in which the worldwide natural disaster damage exceeded $100 billion.
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They can multiply
Landslides are often followed by earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, wildfires, or volcanoes which are often more damaging and deadly than a landslide.
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They are always around
Each year, Southern California has over 10,000 earthquakes, most of which are too small to be felt.
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They are vast
In the United States, tornadoes have touched all 50 states at least once.
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Some years are especially bad
In 2011, there were 154 floods, 16 droughts, and 15 cases of extreme temperatures around the globe.
Why Disaster Day is Important
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It keeps us proactive
We often get so busy putting out every day (metaphorical) fires in life that we don’t anticipate the need to prepare for potential disasters. A day like this gives us a reality check and provides the chance to get prepared for unforeseen situations.
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It encourages learning
Many phenomena can have direct or indirect implications on us without us predicting them. This day stops us from staying in the dark and familiarizing ourselves with everything that happens in the world and the functioning of nature.
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It keeps us informed
Some of the most devastating and impactful disasters in history have shaped the world as we know it today. Many disasters have also resulted in dire fatalities and economic damage that can’t be overlooked. Disaster Day gives us the chance to learn about history and do whatever we can to prevent similar events from happening in the future.
Disaster Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | February 5 | Sunday |
| 2024 | February 5 | Monday |
| 2025 | February 5 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | February 5 | Thursday |
| 2027 | February 5 | Friday |
