Question 1

What is a natural disaster?

Accepted Answer

A natural disaster is a sudden event in nature that can cause lots of damage. Examples are earthquakes, floods, and tornadoes.

Question 2

What causes earthquakes?

Accepted Answer

Earthquakes happen when massive rocks under the ground suddenly move. This movement shakes the ground above, which we feel as an earthquake.

Question 3

Why do volcanoes erupt?

Accepted Answer

Volcanoes erupt because there's pressure building up inside the Earth from hot, melted rock called magma. When there's too much pressure, magma bursts out of the ground, and we see it as an eruption.

Question 4

How do tsunamis start?

Accepted Answer

Tsunamis are huge waves caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions. The sudden movement of the sea floor pushes water and creates big waves.

Question 5

What is a hurricane?

Accepted Answer

A hurricane is a giant storm with very strong winds and heavy rain. It usually forms over warm ocean waters.

Question 6

Why do floods occur?

Accepted Answer

Floods happen when there is too much water from rain or melted snow and it can't drain away fast enough. Rivers can overflow their banks, or it can be caused by a big wave from a storm.

Question 7

How are tornadoes formed?

Accepted Answer

Tornadoes form during powerful thunderstorms. They're made when warm, damp air meets cool, dry air, making a spinning effect in the clouds.

Question 8

What is a wildfire?

Accepted Answer

A wildfire is a large, uncontrolled fire that spreads quickly across trees and bushes. It can start from a lightning strike or sometimes by people.

Question 9

Can animals predict natural disasters?

Accepted Answer

Some animals sense changes in the environment before a disaster happens. For example, dogs might act restless before an earthquake.

Question 10

Why don't natural disasters happen everywhere?

Accepted Answer

Natural disasters need certain conditions to happen. For example, earthquakes mostly occur where the Earth's plates meet, and hurricanes need warm ocean water.

Question 11

What is an avalanche?

Accepted Answer

An avalanche is when a large mass of snow, ice, and rocks falls down a mountain. They usually start after heavy snowfall or a sudden change in temperature.

Question 12

How can we stay safe during an earthquake?

Accepted Answer

During an earthquake, you should drop, cover, and hold on. Get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold on until the shaking stops.

Question 13

Why do landslides occur?

Accepted Answer

Landslides happen when rocks and dirt on a slope become unstable and slide down. Heavy rain or earthquakes can trigger landslides.

Question 14

What can we do to prepare for a hurricane?

Accepted Answer

To prepare for a hurricane, you can make an emergency plan and pack a supply kit with food, water, and other essentials. Also, listen to weather updates and follow instructions from authorities.

Question 15

What happens during a drought?

Accepted Answer

A drought is a long period with very little rain. Plants and animals may struggle to find water, and people might face water shortages.

Question 16

Why do we have warning systems for natural disasters?

Accepted Answer

Warning systems alert people when a natural disaster might happen soon. They help us get ready and stay safe by giving us time to move to safer places.

Question 17

What is a blizzard?

Accepted Answer

A blizzard is a severe snowstorm with strong winds and very low temperatures. The snow can create big drifts and make it hard to see and travel.

Question 18

Can technology help us understand natural disasters?

Accepted Answer

Yes, technology can help us predict and track natural disasters more accurately. Scientists use satellites, sensors, and computers to study weather patterns and ground movements.

Question 19

What role do scientists play in natural disasters?

Accepted Answer

Scientists study natural disasters to understand why they happen and how we can predict them. They share their findings to help keep communities safe.

Question 20

How can kids help during a natural disaster?

Accepted Answer

Kids can help by following safety rules, staying calm, and listening to adults. They can also know the family emergency plan and share it with friends.

The Science of Natural Disasters - 20 FAQs Explained Simply