Natural hazards include flood, fire, earthquakes, tornadoes and windstorms.
These events tend to recur in the same geographic locations. This is because they are related to weather patterns or physical elements in an area.
Natural disasters affect hundreds of thousands of people each year. According to a
Reuters article, natural disasters caused $109 billion in economic damage in 2010. This was three times more than in 2009.
When faced with disasters, people must make important decisions. Because disasters can strike without warning, it's best to be prepared.
This helps people make smart decisions. In turn, they may be better able to protect themselves and their families. And they may reduce their risk for harm.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency, also known as FEMA, offers
basic preparedness suggestions: 
