This two-volume encyclopedia provides the science behind heart-pumping geophysical hazards such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, cyclones, and floods, as well as authoritative entries on notable natural disasters around the world and the agencies that help victims of them.

Natural Hazards and Disasters explores the sometimes harsh effects of nature on human life. The set discusses the physical science behind specific types of hazards and disasters (such as blizzards and tsunamis), their impact on our lives, how damage is mitigated or prevented, recovery and reconstruction, and the current research and technology used for managing or even eliminating the hazards.

Written by experts in the field, the set also explores a variety of extreme events from around the world, including the 2010–2011 Christchurch Earthquake (New Zealand), the 2017–2018 Thomas Fire (United States), and the 2018 Kerala Floods (India). Also covered are the world's major international and nonprofit aid agencies, like the Salvation Army and Oxfam, that assist disaster victims.

• Provides thorough coverage of the human and physical factors of 25 natural hazards and disasters, from the causes and physical structure of a disaster to the damage they cause to societies, to the technology used to mitigate destruction and eliminate loss of life
• Examines 75 historic disasters from around the world, their causes, preparedness efforts, warning and evacuation, impact, response and relief efforts, and recovery and reconstruction
• Provides authoritative content clear to the casual reader and students alike, reflecting the knowledge of hazards experts