Active processes
The slow and irregular processes, that are active upon and within the Earth tend to accumulate tensions that will, from time to time, release their energy in a spectacular way: volcano eruptions, earthquakes, landslides, etc. The slow way at which these processes work tends to create the feeling that Earth always provides a stable and trustworthy foundation for human activities such as building and housing or roads and bridges.
Volcanic risks - eruption of Etna, Italy. Photo: P.Christmann
Damages
Unfortunately, hundreds of people are killed every year because we ignore the natural processes in our quest for land and space. Damages as a result of flooding have increased dramatically over the last decade. This is the combined result of climate change and inappropriate land use planning. The increasing settlement of men in the coastal and riparian areas leads to increased damage and loss of lives.
However, flooding is not a new problem! Valleys were formed and filled with sediments over thousands of years. While men are forcing rivers to flow in contained areas, rivers claim back what space is naturally available to them. Historical geological records explain and predict nowadays the flooding risks. Predictions that can be used to plan better the cities and infrastructures.
Damages due to flooding, earthquake and landslide
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