Case study: California, USA - A Multiple Hazard Environment

Where is California located?

• south-western USA

• west coast of the USA

• North America

• northern hemisphere

What hazards occur in California?

• earthquakes

• river flooding

• coastal flooding

• mudslides

• landslides

• smog

• droughts

• wildfires

What are some of the causes and impacts of the hazards that occur in California?

What does the future hold for California?

• increasing population

• increased pollution

• increased water usage

• increased risk of fires and flooding

• climate change

• more severe and frequent hazards

What are some of the responses to all hazards in California?

• taking out insurance against damage to homes, offices, or businesses

• FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) uses a number of grants to help prepare for and respond to a variety of disasters

• ensuring emergency services are ready and prepared for a range of hazards and disasters, local or regional

• households being prepared for up to 72 hours following a disaster