Living with tectonic hazards

Why do the effects of Tectonic Hazards Vary?

Why do effects of tectonic hazards vary?

The effects of tectonichazards vary because

1. Some places are nearer to the source of earthquakes or volcanoes

2. Some places are better prepared than others

3. Some places have more resources to deal with the effects of the hazard

Primary effects

Immediate effects

•Death/injury

•Loss of land/buildings

•Damage to infrastructure

Secondary effects

Longer term effects

•Lack of shelter

•Poor water/food supply

•Loss of income

•Long-term damage to infrastructure

Kobe Earthquake - JapanMEDC

Gujarat Earthquake - IndiaLEDC

You may be asked to compare impacts between

MEDCs and LEDCs

Mt St Helens – USA (causes)

• Erupted on the morning of May 18th 1980, after being inactive for over 120 years.

• Caused by the subduction of the oceanic Juan de Fuca plate under the continental North American plate, on the West Coast of the United States. The volcano forms part of the Rockies Range of mountains.

Mt St Helens – USA (effects)

Why do people live in hazardous areas?• People feel that it “won’t happen to them” and that they

are well prepared• Some areas like California (USA), have an excellent

climate, superb beaches and a wide range of job opportunities

• In places like Iceland, geothermal energy can be generated from the volcanic rocks

• Many minerals and precious stones are found in volcanic areas

• Volcanic rock provide mineral-rich fertile soil, which is excellent for agriculture

• Volcanic soil is often found in spectacular areas of scenery which provide an excellent opportunity for the development of tourism.