Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction Notes

Volcanic Hazards

  • Definition: Observable facts arising due to volcanic activity (e.g., eruptions) which pose threats to human life, animals, properties, infrastructure, tourism, and political stability.
  • Volcanic Eruptions: Dangerous events leading to various hazards:
    • Ballistic projectiles
    • Ash fall
    • Pyroclastic flows
    • Lava flows
    • Volcanic gases
    • Debris avalanche/landslides
    • Tsunami

Types of Volcanic-Related Hazards

  1. Ballistic Projectiles:

    • Description: Rock fragments ejected from a volcano, comparable to cannonballs.
    • Distance: Can travel up to 5 km (3 miles).
    • Negative Effects:
      • Dangerous impact without warning.
      • Burial of agricultural lands (>10 cm depth).
      • Disruption of air and water quality due to fine particulate suspension.
      • Carrying noxious gases and heat.

  2. Ash Fall / Tephra Fall:

    • Description: Minute particles (rock, minerals, silica) ejected during eruptions.
    • Formation: Occurs when gases in magma violently escape into the atmosphere.
    • Negative Effects:
      • Endangers life and property.
      • Detrimental to organisms in land and water.
      • Causes respiratory problems in humans.
      • Damages machinery, roofs, and communication lines.

  3. Pyroclastic Flows:

    • Description: Dense mix of hot lava blocks, pumice, ash, and gases that flow rapidly.
    • Structure: Composed of a basal flow of coarse fragments and a turbulent ash cloud above.
    • Negative Effects:
      • Destructive to anything in its path, burning forests and farmlands.

  4. Lava Flows:

    • Description: Streams of molten rock that erupt from the vent.
    • Speed: Move slowly so rarely threaten life directly.
    • Negative Effects:
      • Can induce pyroclastic flows.
      • Damages properties and agricultural lands.

  5. Volcanic Gases:

    • Description: Dissolved gases in magma released during eruptions.
    • Negative Effects:
      • Tahoe hazards to all living things; e.g., carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide.
      • Sulfur dioxide irritates eyes and skin, can cause respiratory issues.
      • May lead to acid rain.

  6. Debris Avalanche/Volcanic Landslide:

    • Description: Collapse of a volcano usually after earthquakes.
    • Negative Effects:
      • Massive destruction due to large-scale collapse.

  7. Tsunami:

    • Description: Waves generated by sudden water displacements, often due to volcanic eruptions.
    • Negative Effects:
      • An eruption near water can displace water and generate huge waves.

Disaster Readiness and Response

Safety Preparations
  • Stay informed via radio and television for hazard updates.
  • Seal doors and windows to prevent ash infiltration.
  • Shelter animals.
  • Familiarize with local evacuation plans and emergency hotlines.
  • Keep a survival kit accessible.
  • Avoid low areas susceptible to rock falls and lava flows.
  • Prepare for potential evacuation.
During a Disaster
  • Remain alert and follow authorities' instructions.
  • Protect head from rock falls and cover nose from ash with a wet cloth.
  • Wear protective clothing (long sleeves, goggles) to minimize exposure to ash.
  • Do not drive through volcanic ash as it can reduce vehicle control.
Post-Disaster Actions
  • Clear pathways and stay updated on news.
  • Avoid damaged power lines and check for injuries without entering unsafe buildings.

Typhoon and Hydrometeorological Hazards

Definition
  • Hydrometeorological Hazards: Weather-related events that can cause loss of life and damage.
  • Examples include: Typhoons, thunderstorms, floods, storm surges, El Niño, La Niña.
Typhoon Categories (Based on Wind Speed)
  1. Tropical Depression: Winds < 30 kt.
  2. Tropical Storm: Winds 34 kt.
  3. Typhoon/Hurricane: Winds > 64 kt.
Modified Tropical Cyclone Warning System (TCWS)
  • Warnings indicate potential impacts based on wind threat levels, from minimal damage to catastrophic destruction.

Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)

Definition
  • Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR): Measures undertaken to mitigate potential disaster effects by managing risks and vulnerabilities.
Key Principles of DRR
  1. Development can reduce disaster risks.
  2. Effective implementation of DRR laws saves lives.
  3. Building resilient communities through preparedness.
Elements of DRR
  • PREVENTION: Avoiding hazards through land use and engineering.
  • MITIGATION: Limiting adverse impacts.
  • ADAPTATION: Adjusting systems to minimize harm.
  • PREPAREDNESS: Training and planning for effective response.
  • RESPONSE: Emergency services during disasters.
  • RECOVERY: Restoration and improvement post-disaster.

Community Preparedness

  • Essential for communities to prepare for, withstand, and recover from disasters.
  • Family emergency plans should include communication strategies and emergency kits.
Importance of Disaster Planning
  • Reduces impacts and prepares organizations for disaster-related activities, enhancing community resilience.

Funding for Disaster Management

Local and National Funds:
  • Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund (LDRRMF): Required allocation from revenue.
  • National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund (NDRRMF): Use of funds for DRR activities and response efforts.
Agencies Involved in DRR
  • Various government agencies and local organizations are responsible for implementation and coordination of DRR efforts. Key agencies include DND, DILG, DSWD, DOST, and NEDA, playing crucial roles during crises.

DRRM Policies and Frameworks

  • Philippine policies align with global frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 and ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management to guide national and local government efforts.