Introduction

In the earlier unit we introduced you to the concepts of Snow avalanches and floods. In this unit, we will explore the multifaceted nature of coastal hazards, drought, and forest fires, all of which pose significant challenges to environmental and human systems.

Coastal hazards, including storm surges, tsunamis, and erosion, threaten coastal communities and ecosystems, necessitating comprehensive planning and resilient infrastructure to mitigate impacts. Droughts, characterised by prolonged periods of insufficient rainfall, severely affect water supply, agriculture, and ecosystems, requiring effective water management strategies and adaptive practices to sustain livelihoods and natural resources.

Forest fires, whether caused by natural factors or human activities, result in widespread environmental destruction and pose severe risks to both wildlife and human populations.

Understanding the causes, impacts, and management strategies for these hazards is crucial for developing effective responses and enhancing resilience in affected areas.

Objectives

After going through this unit you will be able to:

1. define what are coastal hazards?;
2. understand assessment and mitigation of drought;
3. describe cause and consequences of forest fires