How LEDCs and MEDCs are affected by natural disasters

For IGCSE geography

Natural hazard

Natural hazard

A possible natural event (earthquake, volcano, tropical storm, tsunami etc.) that can cause harm to humans or human-built structures, however it has not happened yet.

Natural disaster

When a natural hazard has happened

How will an LEDC prepare for a natural hazard such as an earthquake?

• Reinforcing infrastructure: Using tin roofs instead of concrete ones so they do not collapse on top of people in an earthquake. Using bamboo to reinforce walls and other infrastructure.

• Educating: giving public awareness to people in the area so they know what to expect and how to act.

How will an MEDC prepare for a natural hazard such as an earthquake?

• Upgrading infrastructure: E.g. Japan has built ‘earthquake-proof’ buildings, to prevent any extreme damage that could have been caused by earthquakes.

• Earthquake survival kits: Because MEDCs have more money, they can invest in creating earthquake survival kits for the public to buy.

Is it more likely for an MEDC or an LEDC to have more deaths in the case of an earthquake (the earthquake has the same magnitude)

The LEDC - they do not have the funds to prepare and they will require aid from other countries to help them. Buildings are less secure.