The Benefits/Advantages and Disadvantages of Some Natural Disasters (Floods, Volcanoes, and Hurricanes)

Natural disasters refer to environmental phenomenon that are destructive and occur naturally. Natural disasters include floods, volcanic activity, hurricanes, droughts, and earthquakes. While some of these disasters can be predicted and prepared for, they cannot be completely avoided and may result in damage. Some disasters can be so devastating that it wipes out human life in some areas. Whatever the disaster may be, it affects societies both negatively and positively.

What Is A Flood?

A flood is as a large body of water in areas where it becomes destructive and impedes the natural cycle of living organisms. A flood may be the result of long periods of heavy rain, or rivers or lakes that have overflown their banks. High temperatures can also cause flooding when it causes ice caps and snow to melt quickly. Heavy floods can be so disastrous that infrastructure is washed away, people and animals drown, and people can be stranded for long periods.

Disadvantages of a Flood

The society and economy of a country suffers in many ways after a flood. The loss of lives, vegetation, and infrastructure means there will be fewer people on the labor force, less agriculture available for locals and exportation, and less businesses to contribute to the economy of the country. There will be mass dislocation of people, many of whom may be left homeless and jobless. In order to fill this gap the government will have to spend a little more. The country may seek assistance from foreign countries to supply food and materials to clean and replace infrastructure. While some countries will assist freely, some will charge for its efforts, putting the country in debt and at an economic loss.

Benefits of a Flood

There are benefits of flooding despite its immediate ill effects. For farmers and those in the agricultural sector, it helps them in the long run by providing nutrients to the soil that were lacking. This makes the soil more fertile and increases agricultural production. Nutrients are also added to rivers and lakes, improving the health of fishes that can be consumed. There may be relocation of fishes and organisms living in water bodies. This may improve the ecosystem. New predators and prey are introduced to areas, balancing the aquatic population.