DISASTER MANAGEMENT

MODULE - 1
 Course Objectives
To provide a foundational understanding of disaster management.

To familiarize students with key concepts, types of disasters, and basic response strategies.

To highlight the importance of disaster preparedness and community resilience.

Syllabus
Systems of earth -

◦ Lithosphere- composition, rocks, soils;

◦ Atmosphere-layers, ozone layer, greenhouse effect, weather, cyclones, atmospheric circulations, Indian Monsoon;

◦ Hydrosphere- Oceans, inland water bodies

◦ biosphere

Definition and meaning of key terms in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management-

◦ Disaster, hazard, exposure, vulnerability, risk, risk assessment, risk mapping, capacity, resilience, disaster risk reduction,

◦ disaster risk management, early warning systems, disaster preparedness, disaster prevention, disaster mitigation, disaster response,
damage assessment, crisis counselling, needs assessment.
Text Books &Reference Books
Text Books
Sl. Name of the Edition
Title of the Book Name of the Author/s
No Publisher and Year
Vikas Publishing
1 Disaster Management R. Subramanian 2018
House
2 Disaster Management M. M. Sulphey PHI Learning 2016

Reference Books
Sl. Name of the Publisher Edition and
Title of the Book Name of the Author/s
No Year
Disaster Risk
1 Management Training Manual UNDP UNDP 2016

Sendai Framework for United Nations United Nations

2 Disaster Risk Reduction 2015- Office for Disaster Risk Office for Disaster Risk 2015
2030 Reduction. Reduction.
Disaster management – meaning
Disaster management refers to the process of preparing for, responding to, and recovering
from natural or man-made disasters. Its goal is to minimize the impact of disasters on people,
property, and the environment.

Disaster management is a coordinated effort involving government agencies, non-

governmental organizations (NGOs), local communities, and international bodies. Effective
disaster management helps to reduce the long-term impacts of disasters and build more
resilient communities.
 Definition
According to Section 2(e) of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, disaster management refers to:
“a continuous and integrated process of planning, organizing, coordinating, and implementing measures
which are necessary or expedient for—
(i) Prevention of danger or threat of any disaster;
(ii) Mitigation or reduction of risk of any disaster or its severity or consequences;
(iii) Capacity-building;
(iv) Preparedness to deal with any disaster;
(v) Prompt response to any threatening disaster situation or disaster;
(vi) Assessing the severity or magnitude of effects of any disaster; and
(vii) Evacuation, rescue, and relief;
(viii) Rehabilitation and reconstruction.”
Earth systems/earth spheres
 1. Lithosphere (Geosphere)
The “ rock sphere”

The geosphere refers to the solid part of the Earth, including the crust, mantle, and core. It is the
source of essential minerals and resources, and the processes that occur in the geosphere shape
the planet's surface.

Rocks and minerals

Fossil & fuels

Landforms
Layers Of Lithosphere
Composition of lithosphere
1.Crust: The outermost layer
of the Earth, composed
• Continental Crust: Mainly granite, which is
mainly of silicate minerals. less dense
There are two types: • Oceanic Crust: Mainly basalt, which is denser.

2. Mantle: Lies below the

crust and is made up of
semi-solid rock that flows
slowly. It is rich in iron and
magnesium silicates.
 Rocks

Rocks are naturally occurring solid masses made up of minerals, mineraloids, or organic materials. They

are the basic building blocks of the Earth’s crust and are classified based on their formation processes,

mineral composition, and texture.

Types of Rocks

Igneous Sedimentary Metamorphic

Rocks Rocks Rocks
1. Igneous Rocks
Formation: Formed from the cooling and solidification of molten rock, called magma (beneath
the surface) or lava (on the surface).
Types:
Intrusive Igneous Rocks: Formed when magma cools slowly beneath the Earth's surface,
resulting in large crystals. Example: Granite.

Extrusive Igneous Rocks: Formed when lava cools quickly on the Earth's surface, resulting in
small crystals or a glassy texture. Example: Basalt.

Examples: Granite, Basalt, Obsidian, Pumice.

2. Sedimentary Rocks
•Formation: Formed by the accumulation and compression of sediments such as minerals, organic matter,
and small rock particles. These sediments are often deposited in layers by wind, water, or ice.

•Types:
 Clastic Sedimentary Rocks: Formed from fragments of other rocks. Example: Sandstone.
 Chemical Sedimentary Rocks: Formed from the precipitation of minerals from water. Example:
Limestone.
 Organic Sedimentary Rocks: Formed from the accumulation of plant and animal remains. Example:
Coal.

•Examples: Sandstone, Limestone, Shale, Coal.

3. Metamorphic Rocks
Formation: Formed from the transformation of existing rocks (igneous, sedimentary, or other
metamorphic rocks) through intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth.
Types:
Foliated Metamorphic Rocks: Have a banded or layered appearance due to the alignment of minerals.
Example: Schist.
Non-foliated Metamorphic Rocks: Lack a banded texture and often have a uniform composition. Example:
Marble.

Examples: Marble (from limestone), Schist (from shale), Gneiss (from granite).
Importance of Rocks
1. Construction Materials: Rocks like granite and limestone are used in construction.

2. Fossil Records: Sedimentary rocks often contain fossils, which provide valuable information about
Earth’s history.

3. Mineral Resources: Many valuable minerals and metals, like gold, copper, and diamonds, are
extracted from rocks.

Rocks are essential to understanding Earth’s geologic history and are an important resource in many
industries.
soil
Soil is the loose, upper layer of the Earth's surface, where plants grow. It is composed of organic
matter, minerals, gases, liquids, and countless organisms. Soil acts as a medium for plant growth,
a habitat for various organisms, and a crucial part of the Earth's ecosystem.
Components of Soil

Mineral Particles
Organic Matter
(45%)(sand, silt, Water (25%) Air (25%) Living Organisms
(5%)
clay)
Types of soils

loamy
sandy clayey salty
soils
 1. Sandy Soil
Composition: Contains large particles and is primarily composed of sand (over 85% sand content).

Characteristics:
Drains quickly due to large pore spaces between particles.
Poor at retaining moisture and nutrients.
Low fertility but easy to work with in terms of cultivation.

•Use: Often used for crops like watermelons, peanuts, and peaches that do well in well-drained
conditions.
2. Clayey Soil
•Composition: Contains a high proportion of clay particles, which are very fine and compact.

•Characteristics:
Retains water and nutrients very well due to small particle size.
Poor drainage and aeration, making it heavy and sticky when wet.
Hard to work with, especially during dry or wet conditions.

•Use: Suitable for crops like rice, that require a lot of water, but needs careful management for most
other crops.
3. Silty Soil
•Composition: Made up of fine particles, smaller than sand but larger than clay, giving it a smooth,
slippery texture.

•Characteristics:
Holds moisture better than sandy soil but has better drainage than clay.
Fertile and easy to work with.
Susceptible to erosion if not well managed.

•Use: Suitable for a variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and grains.
4. Loamy Soil
•Composition: A balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay, with a good amount of organic matter.

•Characteristics:
Retains moisture and nutrients well, while also providing good drainage and aeration.
Highly fertile and easy to cultivate, making it ideal for agriculture.

•Use: Most crops, such as wheat, maize, cotton, and legumes, thrive in loamy soil due to its ideal
properties.
 Importance of Soil
Plant Growth: Soil provides the essential nutrients, water, and structure for plants to anchor and grow.

Nutrient Cycling: Soil helps in the decomposition of organic matter and recycling of nutrients, supporting
ecosystems.

Water Filtration: Soil filters and purifies water as it moves through the ground.

Habitat for Organisms: Soil supports a wide range of organisms that contribute to nutrient cycling and
ecosystem health.

Human Use: Soil is essential for agriculture, construction, and various industries.
 2. Atmosphere
The atmosphere is the layer of gases surrounding the Earth, held in place by gravity. It protects life on
Earth by creating a stable environment, regulating temperature, and providing essential gases for living
organisms. The atmosphere plays a vital role in weather, climate, and the water cycle.

Air sphere

Maintain earth temperature

Protect organisms from suns ultraviolet (UV)radiations

Provide natural gasses

Layers of the atmosphere
1. Troposphere:
The lowest layer, extending from the Earth's surface to about 8-15 km (5-9 miles) high.
Contains about 75% of the atmosphere's mass and almost all the water vapor, clouds, and weather phenomena.
Temperature decreases with altitude in this layer.

2. Stratosphere:
Extends from the top of the troposphere to about 50 km (31 miles) above the Earth.
Contains the ozone layer, which absorbs harmful UV radiation from the sun.
Temperature increases with altitude here, due to ozone absorption of UV radiation.

3. Mesosphere:
Located from around 50 to 85 km (31-53 miles) above the Earth.
The coldest layer, where temperatures decrease with altitude.
This layer protects Earth by burning up most meteoroids that enter the atmosphere.

4. Thermosphere:
Extends from about 85 to 600 km (53-373 miles) above Earth.
Very thin air with high temperatures due to absorption of high-energy solar radiation.
Contains the ionosphere, which reflects radio waves and enables long-distance communication.

5. Exosphere:
The outermost layer, extending from around 600 km (373 miles) to about 10,000 km (6,200 miles).
The boundary between Earth’s atmosphere and outer space.
Contains very few particles, primarily hydrogen and helium, gradually thinning into space.
 Ozone Layer
The ozone layer is a region in the Earth's stratosphere that contains a high concentration of ozone
(O₃) molecules. It is located approximately 15-35 kilometers (9-22 miles) above Earth's surface. This
layer plays a critical role in protecting life on Earth by absorbing most of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet
(UV) radiation, particularly UV-B and UV-C rays, which can cause skin cancer, cataracts, and harm
plants and marine ecosystems.
Formation of the Ozone Layer:
Ozone is created and destroyed in a natural cycle. When UV-C rays hit oxygen molecules (O₂), they
split into individual oxygen atoms. These atoms can then bond with other O₂ molecules to form
ozone (O₃).
This process, known as the ozone-oxygen cycle, constantly produces and breaks down ozone,
maintaining a balance.
Ozone Layer Depletion
•Certain man-made chemicals, especially chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other ozone-
depleting substances (ODS), have damaged the ozone layer.
•When CFCs and other ODS reach the stratosphere, they are broken down by UV radiation, releasing
chlorine and bromine atoms.
•These atoms react with ozone, breaking down ozone molecules into O₂, which reduces the amount of
ozone available to absorb UV radiation.
Greenhouse Effect (GHGs)
The greenhouse effect is a natural process that warms the Earth’s surface. It occurs when the Earth's atmosphere
traps some of the Sun's energy, preventing it from escaping back into space, and warming the planet.
How the Greenhouse Effect Works
Solar Radiation: The Sun emits energy that travels to Earth, primarily in the form of visible light and ultraviolet
(UV) radiation.
Absorption by Earth's Surface: About 70% of the Sun’s radiation is absorbed by Earth's land, oceans, and
atmosphere, which warms the planet.
Heat Radiation Back to Space: Earth's surface, in turn, emits heat energy (infrared radiation) back toward space.
Trapping of Heat: Certain gases in the atmosphere, known as greenhouse gases (GHGs), absorb this outgoing
infrared radiation and re-emit it in all directions, including back toward Earth's surface. This process traps heat and
keeps Earth warm enough to support life.
Key Greenhouse Gases (GHGs)
The main gases responsible for the greenhouse effect are:
Carbon dioxide (CO₂): Produced from burning fossil fuels (like coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation,
and various industrial processes.
Methane (CH₄): Released from livestock digestion, rice paddies, landfills, and fossil fuel extraction.
Nitrous oxide (N₂O): Emitted from agricultural practices, such as fertilizer use, and certain industrial
activities.
Water vapor (H₂O): The most abundant greenhouse gas, but its levels are naturally controlled by the
climate rather than by human activities.
Fluorinated gases: Synthetic gases used in industrial processes, refrigeration, and air conditioning.
Though present in small amounts, they are extremely potent GHGs.
 Weather
•Weather refers to the short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific place at a specific time. It includes factors such as
temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed and direction, cloud cover, and atmospheric pressure. Weather
changes constantly and can vary significantly over short distances and time periods. Here’s a breakdown of key aspects of
weather:
Components of Weather
Temperature: The measure of how hot or cold the atmosphere is, usually measured in degrees Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit
(°F).
Humidity: The amount of moisture (water vapor) in the air. High humidity can make temperatures feel warmer than they
are.
Precipitation: Any form of water that falls from clouds, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.
Wind: The movement of air from high-pressure areas to low-pressure areas. Wind speed and direction are influenced by
various factors, including the Earth’s rotation.
Atmospheric Pressure: The force exerted by the weight of the air above. High pressure often leads to clear, calm weather,
while low pressure is associated with clouds and precipitation.
Factors Affecting Weather
•Latitude: Regions closer to the equator receive more sunlight and are typically warmer, while regions near
the poles are colder.
•Altitude: Higher altitudes tend to have cooler temperatures.
•Land and Water Proximity: Coastal areas often have milder weather due to the influence of the ocean,
while inland areas experience more temperature variation.
•Seasonal Changes: The tilt of the Earth’s axis causes seasonal weather patterns as different parts of the
Earth receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year.
Cyclones
Formation: Cyclones are intense circular storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and are
characterized by low atmospheric pressure, strong winds, and heavy rain. Cyclones occur when warm, moist
air rises and creates a low-pressure area at the Earth's surface, causing air from surrounding areas to rush in
and form a circular wind pattern.
Result from the interaction of warm, moist air with low pressure systems, leading to organized storm systems.

Types of Cyclones
Tropical Cyclones: These form over warm tropical oceans and include hurricanes (Atlantic and Northeast
Pacific), typhoons (Northwest Pacific), and cyclones (Indian Ocean and South Pacific).
Extra tropical Cyclones: Also known as mid-latitude cyclones, these form outside the tropics and are generally
less intense than tropical cyclones but can bring heavy rain, snow, and cold weather.
Polar Lows: Small, intense cyclones that form near polar regions, particularly in the winter, and can bring
severe winter storms.
Atmospheric Circulations
Atmospheric Circulation is the large-scale movement of air by which heat is distributed on the surface of the Earth.
It plays a key role in regulating temperatures and weather patterns, helping to balance the unequal distribution of
solar energy received at different latitudes.

Why Atmospheric Circulation Occurs

Uneven Heating: The equator receives more direct sunlight, making it warmer, while the poles receive less sunlight
and are colder. This uneven heating creates pressure differences in the atmosphere, with warm air rising at the
equator and cold air sinking at the poles.
Earth's Rotation : As the Earth rotates, moving air is deflected, causing winds to bend in specific directions. This
effect influences wind patterns and divides the atmospheric circulation into distinct cells.
Indian Monsoon
•The Indian Monsoon is a major climate system that profoundly impacts the Indian subcontinent, bringing seasonal
rainfall critical for agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems. The monsoon has two main phases: the Southwest
Monsoon (summer monsoon) and the Northeast Monsoon (winter monsoon).
Impact of the Monsoon on India
Agriculture: The Indian economy, especially agriculture, is heavily dependent on monsoon rains, as they irrigate
crops such as rice, cotton, and sugarcane. A strong monsoon leads to good crop yields, while a weak monsoon can
cause drought and crop failures.
Water Resources: Monsoon rains replenish rivers, lakes, and reservoirs that are critical for drinking water, irrigation,
and hydropower.
Ecosystems: The monsoon supports diverse ecosystems, from the rainforests of the Western Ghats to the wetlands
of northeast India.
Social and Economic Impacts: Variations in monsoon patterns, such as delayed onset or erratic rains, can cause
floods, droughts, and economic instability, affecting millions of people.
3. Hydrosphere
The hydrosphere encompasses all the water present on Earth's surface, including oceans, rivers, lakes,
groundwater, and even moisture in the atmosphere. It plays a crucial role in regulating the planet's climate,
supporting life, and shaping the landscape.

Importance of the Hydrosphere

Supports life: Water is essential for all living organisms, making the hydrosphere fundamental to the existence
of life on Earth.
Influences the Water Cycle: The hydrosphere is integral to the water cycle, which involves the continuous
movement of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff.
Impacts weather and climate: The distribution and movement of water influence weather patterns,
precipitation levels, and temperature variations.
a. Oceans
•Oceans cover about 71% of Earth's surface, making them the largest component of the hydrosphere.
•They are major reservoirs of Earth's water and contain about 97% of the planet's water.

Functions of oceans:

Climate regulation: Oceans absorb solar radiation and distribute heat around the globe through
currents, influencing weather patterns and regulating temperatures.
Carbon sink: They absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, playing a
role in mitigating global warming.
Biodiversity: Oceans are home to diverse ecosystems, including coral reefs, kelp forests, and deep-
sea trenches, which support a wide range of marine species.
Economic resources: Oceans provide resources such as fish, minerals, and energy (e.g., oil, natural
gas), and are important for transportation and trade.
b. Inland Water Bodies
Rivers, Lakes, and Streams:
•Act as freshwater sources for drinking, agriculture, and industry.
•Play a role in nutrient cycling and supporting biodiversity.
•Rivers are crucial for transportation and energy production (hydroelectric power).

Wetlands:
•Include marshes, swamps, and bogs, which are critical for maintaining water quality, storing floodwaters,
and providing habitat for a variety of species.

Groundwater:
•Found beneath the Earth's surface, stored in aquifers.
•An important source of drinking water and irrigation.
•Contributes to the flow of rivers and lakes.
4. BIOSPHERE
The biosphere is the global sum of all ecosystems and encompasses all life on Earth, interacting
with the atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere. It includes all living organisms (plants,
animals, and microorganisms) as well as the environments in which they live and interact.
Key Features of the Biosphere
Components of the Biosphere
◦ Biotic Factors: These include all living organisms, such as plants, animals, bacteria, fungi, and other
microorganisms.
◦ Abiotic Factors: The non-living components that support life, such as sunlight, water, air, minerals, and
temperature.
Cycles within the Biosphere andHuman Impact
on the Biosphere

•Carbon Cycle: Carbon cycles through the atmosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere. Plants
take in carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, and it returns to the atmosphere through respiration, decay,
and combustion.
•Nitrogen Cycle: Nitrogen is an essential element for life, as it’s a component of proteins and DNA.
Nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert nitrogen from the atmosphere into forms that plants and animals can use.
•Water Cycle: Water cycles between the biosphere, atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere,
supporting life through processes like precipitation, evaporation, and transpiration.
Definition and meaning of key terms in
Disaster
Disaster

hazard
exposure
vulnerability
risk
risk assessment
risk mapping
capacity
resilience
disaster risk reduction
1. Disaster
Definition: A disaster is a sudden, catastrophic event that causes serious disruption in the
functioning of a community or society, resulting in widespread human, material, economic, or
environmental losses that exceed the ability of the affected community to cope using its own
resources.
A disaster occurs when a hazard impacts a vulnerable community or area, leading to significant
disruption, loss of life, injuries, or damage to property. Essentially, a disaster is when a hazard
becomes a reality, with a significant negative impact on people and their surroundings.

◦ Examples: Earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, industrial accidents.

 2. Hazard

Definition: A hazard is a natural or human-made event with the potential to cause harm to people,
property, or the environment. Hazards include events like earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, chemical spills,
or fires. A hazard does not necessarily result in damage; it just has the potential to cause it.
A hazard is a dangerous phenomenon, substance, human activity, or condition that may cause loss of life,
injury, or other health impacts, property damage, social and economic disruption, or environmental
degradation.

◦ Types of hazards:
◦ Natural hazards: Earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions.
◦ Man-made hazards: Industrial accidents, chemical spills, nuclear accidents.
 3. Exposure

Definition: This refers to the presence of people, property, infrastructure, or resources in areas that could
be affected by a hazard. It indicates what or who is in harm’s way.
For example, people living along a coastline are exposed to the risk of hurricanes or tsunamis, while
buildings in a floodplain are exposed to flood risks.
Exposure refers to the presence of people, property, systems, or other elements in hazard-prone areas
that are thereby subject to potential losses.
 4. Vulnerability
Definition: This is the degree to which exposed people, infrastructure, or systems are likely to suffer harm or
damage if a hazard occurs. Vulnerability is influenced by factors like socio-economic conditions, building
quality, preparedness, and resilience.
For example, an economically disadvantaged community with poorly constructed buildings will generally be
more vulnerable to an earthquake than a wealthy community with strong infrastructure.
Vulnerability is the conditions determined by physical, social, economic, and environmental factors or
processes which increase the susceptibility of a community to the impact of hazards.
◦ Factors affecting vulnerability:
◦ Physical vulnerability: Poorly built infrastructure.
◦ Social vulnerability: Lack of education, gender inequality.
◦ Economic vulnerability: Poverty, lack of resources.
◦ Environmental vulnerability: Deforestation, poor land management.
 5. Risk

Definition: Risk is the likelihood or probability of harm, loss, or damage occurring due to a hazard. It’s a
combination of the likelihood of a hazard occurring and the potential consequences or impact of that
hazard. In disaster terms, risk is typically determined by assessing the hazard, exposure, and vulnerability.

Risk is the combination of the probability of a hazardous event and its negative consequences. It’s
calculated by assessing the hazard, vulnerability, and exposure.

◦ Formula: Risk = Hazard x Exposure x Vulnerability

◦ Example: The risk of flooding increases with high exposure to a riverbank and poor drainage systems.
 6. Risk Assessment

Definition: Risk assessment is the process of identifying, analyzing, and evaluating the potential risks
that could be involved in a projected activity or undertaking. It involves systematically examining
potential hazards, evaluating the exposure and vulnerability of affected populations or areas, and
determining the potential impacts if a disaster occurs. Risk assessment helps in prioritizing areas for
action, setting up mitigation strategies, and preparing responses.
◦ Steps:
◦ Identify hazards.
◦ Assess the vulnerability of elements at risk.
◦ Evaluate potential consequences.
 7. Risk Mapping
•Risk mapping is the process of creating visual representations, typically maps that identify areas exposed to

different types of hazards and indicate levels of risk. These maps incorporate data on hazards, exposure,

and vulnerability to help in planning and decision-making. Risk maps are valuable tools for prioritizing

areas in need of mitigation efforts, emergency response planning, and resource allocation.

◦ Use: Helps identify the most at-risk areas for targeted disaster preparedness.
 8. Capacity
Definition: Capacity refers to the resources, skills, infrastructure, and strategies available within a
community or organization to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from hazards. This includes
physical resources (e.g., emergency supplies, shelters), human resources (e.g., trained personnel), and
institutional support (e.g., emergency management systems, health services). Capacity determines how
well a community can cope with a hazard, reducing its vulnerability and enhancing resilience.
Capacity refers to the combination of strengths, attributes, and resources available within a community,
society, or organization that can reduce the level of risk, or mitigate the effects of a disaster.
◦ Types of capacity:
◦ Human capacity: Skills, knowledge.
◦ Physical capacity: Infrastructure, technology.
◦ Institutional capacity: Disaster response mechanisms, early warning systems.
9. Resilience
Definition: Resilience in disaster management refers to the ability of individuals, communities,
systems, or organizations to withstand, adapt to, and recover from the impacts of hazards,
disasters, or crises. Resilient communities are able to absorb shocks, minimize damage, and
quickly return to normalcy after an adverse event.
Resilience is the ability of a community, society, or system to resist, absorb, and recover from the
effects of a hazard in a timely and efficient manner.

◦ Example: A community's ability to rebuild after a major earthquake and return to normal functioning.
key components of resilience
Preparedness: Being ready with plans, resources, and training to handle potential hazards.
Adaptability: The ability to adjust practices, behaviors, or infrastructure in response to changing risks.
Response Capability: The resources and skills to respond effectively when a hazard occurs.
Recovery Capacity: The ability to rebuild and restore after a disaster, often in a way that reduces future
risks (e.g., building back better).
Learning and Improvement: Continuously improving based on past experiences with hazards and
disasters.
 10. Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)

Definition: Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) is the approach focused on minimizing the risks and
impacts of disasters by reducing exposure and vulnerability while increasing resilience and
preparedness. DRR aims to create sustainable communities that are better equipped to handle
natural and human-made hazards through proactive measures
Disaster Risk Reduction is the concept and practice of reducing disaster risks through systematic
efforts to analyze and reduce the causal factors of disasters.
◦ Approaches include:
◦ Reducing exposure to hazards.
◦ Lessening the vulnerability of people and property.
◦ Improving disaster preparedness.
key components of DRR
•Risk Assessment: Identifying and understanding the risks that could lead to disasters.
•Risk Reduction: Implementing measures to reduce vulnerabilities, such as building stronger
infrastructure or establishing early warning systems.
•Preparedness: Developing plans, conducting drills, and training to ensure communities and
organizations can respond effectively.
•Resilience Building: Enhancing the ability of communities to recover quickly after a disaster.
•Education and Awareness: Promoting public awareness and knowledge to encourage proactive
actions in disaster-prone areas.
Disaster risk management
Disaster Risk Management (DRM) is a comprehensive approach to identifying, assessing, and
reducing the risks of disasters. It involves preparing, responding, and recovering from disasters
to minimize damage, losses, and human suffering. DRM integrates prevention, mitigation,
preparedness, response, and recovery efforts across various levels of society to build resilience.
Phases /steps of disaster management
Disaster Preparedness

Definition: Disaster preparedness refers to measures taken to prepare for and reduce the effects of
disasters. It includes early warning systems, creating evacuation plans, stockpiling supplies, and
educating communities on how to act during emergencies.
◦ Example: Drills and simulations for earthquakes or floods.
Disaster prevention
Disaster Prevention refers to proactive measures taken to avoid or mitigate the impact of hazards before they lead to a
disaster. Unlike disaster response, which occurs after a disaster, prevention focuses on reducing vulnerabilities and
strengthening resilience to minimize or eliminate the likelihood of harm. Disaster prevention is a key component of disaster
risk reduction (DRR) and aims to create safer and more resilient communities.

Importance of Disaster Prevention

Reduces Human Suffering: Preventive measures protect lives and reduce injuries, physical harm, and emotional trauma.
Minimizes Economic Losses: Prevention reduces the financial impact on households, businesses, and governments by
safeguarding assets and livelihoods.
Preserves Infrastructure: Building resilient infrastructure helps prevent costly repairs and downtime after a disaster.
Promotes Sustainable Development: Prevention supports long-term, sustainable growth by reducing the need for costly
response and recovery efforts.
Enhances Community Resilience: A community that invests in disaster prevention becomes more resilient and better
prepared for future risks.
 Disaster mitigation
Definition: Mitigation refers to the efforts taken to reduce or minimize the severity of a disaster’s
impact. While prevention focuses on stopping disasters altogether, mitigation reduces the damage
they cause.
◦ Example: Constructing earthquake-resistant buildings or creating buffer zones around coastal areas.
 Disaster Response

Definition: Disaster response refers to the immediate actions taken during or after a disaster to ensure
safety, provide relief, and support recovery efforts.
◦ Example: Search and rescue operations, providing food and shelter, medical care, and restoring essential services.
 Early Warning Systems
Definition: An Early Warning System (EWS) is a crucial component of disaster risk reduction. It
consists of organized procedures, technology, and communication channels that help to detect
potential hazards early, assess the level of risk, and communicate timely information to people at risk.
The goal of an EWS is to allow sufficient time for communities and organizations to take preventive
action, thereby reducing potential damage and loss of life.
An early warning system is a set of capacities needed to generate and disseminate timely and
meaningful warning information to enable individuals, communities, and organizations to prepare for
disaster risk and act appropriately.

◦ Example: Tsunami warning systems that detect seismic activity and alert coastal communities.
 Early Warning System (EWS) Methods
Category Methods Used
1. Hazard Monitoring & Detection -Seismic sensors for earthquakes
- Weather radars & satellites for storms
- River & ocean gauges for floods & tsunamis
- Remote sensing for droughts & wildfires
2. Risk Communication & Dissemination Public alert systems (sirens, alarms)
- Mobile/SMS alerts
- Social media and digital platforms
- TV & radio broadcasts
3. Preparedness & Response Training Community drills & simulations
- Public awareness campaigns
- Evacuation plans & routes
4. Decision-Support Systems Community drills & simulations
- Public awareness campaigns
- Evacuation plans & routes
 Disaster management involves several phases:

Prevention and Mitigation: Actions taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to life and property from
hazards. Examples include building flood defenses or enforcing strict building codes in earthquake-prone areas.

Preparedness: Activities and measures taken in advance to ensure effective response to disasters. This includes
creating emergency plans, conducting drills, and educating communities on how to respond.

Response: The immediate reaction to a disaster, focused on saving lives, protecting property, and providing
emergency assistance. This includes search and rescue, medical care, and providing food, water, and shelter.

Recovery: Efforts made to restore a community to normal or improved conditions after a disaster. Recovery
involves rebuilding infrastructure, rehabilitating affected communities, and restoring economic and social
activities.
 Damage assessment
Damage Assessment is a systematic process used to evaluate the extent of physical, social, economic, and
environmental harm caused by a disaster or crisis. It provides essential information on the scale and severity
of damages, guiding recovery efforts and resource allocation for effective response. Damage assessment is
typically conducted immediately after a disaster and can continue during the recovery phase to monitor
progress
Physical Damage
Economic Damage:
Social and Human Impact
Environmental Damage
Crisis Counselling

Definition: Crisis Counseling is a form of short-term mental health support offered to individuals or
communities experiencing intense emotional distress due to traumatic events, such as natural disasters,
accidents, personal loss, or violent incidents. The primary aim of crisis counseling is to stabilize emotions,
provide coping mechanisms, and guide individuals toward recovery and resilience.
Crisis counselling refers to the provision of emotional and psychological support to disaster survivors
and responders to help them cope with trauma and stress following a disaster.

◦ Example: Mental health services provided to communities affected by floods or earthquakes.

 Benefits and Techniques Used in Crisis
Counseling
Techniques Used in Crisis Counseling
Grounding Techniques: Techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness help individuals stay present and reduce
anxiety.
Cognitive Restructuring: Helping individuals reframe negative thoughts to reduce distress.
Solution-Focused Therapy: Focusing on immediate actions and strengths to empower the individual.

Benefits of Crisis Counseling

Helps reduce immediate psychological distress.
Prevents worsening of mental health symptoms.
Provides a safe space for expressing emotions.
Supports individuals in developing resilience and adaptive coping skills.
 Needs Assessment

Definition: A needs assessment is a systematic process to determine the needs of a community or population affected by a disaster,
including immediate survival needs (food, shelter, medical aid) and longer-term needs (reconstruction, livelihood support).
◦ Example: Identifying the food, water, and shelter requirements of a displaced population after a flood

Benefits of Needs Assessment

Ensures an accurate understanding of the situation.
Helps in efficient resource allocation.
Guides the development of targeted interventions.
Prevents duplication of efforts and waste of resources.
Informs decision-making for short- and long-term recovery.
THANK YOU