Natural Disaster: Plan, Prepare, and Survive...

S. Vincent Shin

Analytic--Investor--Student

Published Aug 10, 2023

Indeed, natural disasters happen. Look here for an overview of some significant historical natural disasters, along with their estimated human and economic costs. (Please note that these numbers are approximate and can vary depending on sources and timeframes.) Many of these natural disasters follow predictable time and place patterns. So, planning for these disasters should be a routine human endeavor. Unfortunately, humanity makes the same mistakes every time… Perhaps it’s time to change: analyze, plan, prepare, and survive.

China's flood and earthquake in August 2023 displaced millions of people and destroyed infrastructures. Homeless, No food, looming disease pandemic… And, millions flee homes as deadly Typhoon Doksuri soaks Beijing and a second storm approaches China now in August 2023. Maui, Hawaii August 10, 2023, a lightning-fast wildfire kills at least 114 people and devastates everything people valued in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii. Prayers… "Pule no na kamaaina o Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii."

Here are some major examples (Not limited to.):

Tangshan, China Earthquake (1976): Magnitude: 7.5, Human Cost: Around 242,000 fatalities, Economic Cost: Estimated at $10 billion USD

Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami (2004): affecting multiple countries, Magnitude: 9.1-9.3, Human Cost: Approximately 230,000 - 280,000 fatalities, Economic Cost: Over $14 billion USD

Haiti Earthquake (2010): Magnitude: 7.0, Around 230,000 - 316,000 fatalities, Estimated at $8 billion - $14 billion USD

Tohoku, Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (2011): Magnitude: 9.0, Approximately 15,800 fatalities, Over $360 billion USD

Hurricane Katrina (2005): Gulf Coast, USA (primarily New Orleans): Category: Category 5 hurricane, Around 1,833 fatalities, Estimated at $125 billion USD

Great Kanto Earthquake (1923): Tokyo-Yokohama, Japan, Magnitude: 7.9, 142,800 fatalities, Economic Cost: Varied estimates & damage to infrastructure

Sichuan, China Earthquake (2008): Magnitude: 7.9, Around 87,000 fatalities, Estimated at $150 billion CNY (Chinese Yuan)

Typhoon Haiyan (2013): Philippines, Category 5 typhoon, Approximately 6,300 fatalities, Estimated at $2.8 billion USD

These are just a few examples of historical natural disasters and their associated costs. The human and economic impacts of such events can vary widely, depending on factors like the severity of the event, the preparedness and response measures in place, and the socio-economic conditions of the affected region.

Perhaps, it's time to get serious and plan and survive the next one... Recognizing, planning for, preparing, and surviving natural disasters is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through these steps:

1. Recognizing Natural Disasters: Stay informed: Keep yourself updated through local news, weather forecasts, and official sources about potential natural disasters that could affect your area. Understand warning signs: Familiarize yourself with the warning signs associated with different disasters, such as earthquakes (shaking), tornadoes (rotating funnel clouds), hurricanes (strong winds and heavy rain), etc.

2. Planning for Natural Disasters: Create an emergency plan: Develop a family emergency plan that includes communication and meeting strategies in case you are separated during a disaster. Identify safe spots: Determine safe locations within your home or workplace where you can take shelter during different types of disasters. Evacuation routes: Map out evacuation routes and assembly points in case you need to leave your home quickly.

Emergency contacts: Maintain a list of important contacts, including local authorities, family members, and friends, and store it in multiple accessible locations. Special needs: Consider the needs of children, elderly individuals, and pets in your planning. Important documents: Keep copies of essential documents (IDs, insurance papers, medical records) in a waterproof and portable container. Emergency kit: Prepare a disaster supply kit that includes water, non-perishable food, medications, first aid supplies, flashlight, batteries, and other essentials.

3. Preparing for Natural Disasters: Building structure: Reinforce your home's structural integrity against potential hazards (earthquakes, hurricanes, etc.) by consulting professionals and making necessary improvements. Securing items: Anchor-heavy furniture, water heaters, and other potentially dangerous items that could topple during an earthquake. Trim trees: Regularly trim trees and bushes around your property to reduce the risk of damage from falling branches during storms.

Flood protection: Elevate utilities and consider installing flood barriers or sandbags if you live in a flood-prone area. Insurance coverage: Review your insurance policies to ensure they adequately cover damages caused by various types of natural disasters.

4. Surviving Natural Disasters: Stay informed: Monitor official communication channels for updates and follow instructions from local authorities. Shelter in place: During disasters like earthquakes or severe storms, stay indoors in a safe area away from windows and exterior walls. Evacuation: If instructed, follow evacuation orders promptly and use established routes to reach safe locations.

Communication: Keep your phone charged and use it sparingly to conserve battery. Text messages may be more reliable than voice calls during high network congestion.

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First aid: Administer basic first aid to yourself and others if necessary, and seek medical attention for serious injuries.

Food and water: Conserve your emergency supplies, ration food and water, and prioritize staying hydrated.

Help others: Assist neighbors or community members who may need help, especially those who are elderly, disabled, or have young children.

Mental well-being: Stay calm and reassure others, as psychological well-being is essential for coping with the situation.

Remember that every natural disaster is unique, so it's important to tailor your preparation and response plans accordingly. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and collaborate with your community to increase your chances of successfully recognizing, planning for, preparing, and surviving natural disasters.

No alt text provided for this image — Maui, Hawaii wildfire kills at least 114. "Pule no na kamaaina o Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii."

~S. Vincent Shin, www.linkedin.com/in/vshin

Be Vigilant. Be Safe.

“Stay Curious” and “Think for Yourself.” Always decide on your own terms. This is my research and analysis. Perhaps you should take a closer look at them and do additional investigation and scrutiny if they interest you. (SVS)