# Definitions and the cycle

Subject: Disaster Management

Exam: M2

Reader: https://deep-learning-study-room.vercel.app/dm/#m2/papers/m2-questions/basics

Canonical: https://deep-learning-study-room.vercel.app/read/dm/m2/papers/m2-questions--basics/

2-mark and 3-mark practice · full answers below each question

### Practice question. Differentiate between a hazard and a disaster with an example. [2 practice marks]

#### Answer

A **hazard** has the potential to cause harm, whereas a **disaster** is the serious disruption produced when that hazard affects exposed and vulnerable people or assets. A river rising is a flood hazard; widespread inundation that disrupts homes, hospitals and livelihoods is a flood disaster.

#### Illustrative application · Two communities exposed to the same hazard

Two settlements may face similar heavy rain but experience different losses because of drainage, housing, warnings and ability to evacuate. The example separates the hazardous event from exposure, vulnerability and capacity, which together influence disaster risk.

### Practice question. Explain vulnerability and capacity with one example each. [2 practice marks]

#### Answer

**Vulnerability** is a condition that increases susceptibility to a hazard; an unreinforced building is vulnerable to earthquake damage. **Capacity** is the combination of skills and resources available to manage risk; trained rescue teams and safe shelters increase a community’s capacity.

#### Illustrative application · Two communities exposed to the same hazard

Two settlements may face similar heavy rain but experience different losses because of drainage, housing, warnings and ability to evacuate. The example separates the hazardous event from exposure, vulnerability and capacity, which together influence disaster risk.

### Practice question. Explain the disaster management cycle with examples. [3 practice marks]

#### Answer

The cycle is a continuous sequence of risk reduction, readiness, emergency action and recovery.

1. **Prevention and mitigation:** avoid unsafe development and strengthen vulnerable buildings.
2. **Preparedness:** arrange warnings, evacuation routes, drills and emergency supplies.
3. **Response:** rescue people, provide urgent care and distribute essentials.
4. **Recovery:** restore services and livelihoods; rehabilitation and reconstruction should build back better.

#### Illustrative application · Two communities exposed to the same hazard

Two settlements may face similar heavy rain but experience different losses because of drainage, housing, warnings and ability to evacuate. The example separates the hazardous event from exposure, vulnerability and capacity, which together influence disaster risk.