Talking about Disasters: English Vocabulary List

the sudden movement and shaking of the earth's surface, usually causing damage

"The earthquake shook the city."

"Following the devastating earthquake, rescue efforts were immediately mobilized."

a very strong and destructive wind that moves in circles, often seen in the Caribbean

"The hurricane destroyed many houses."

"Residents were advised to evacuate their homes ahead of the approaching hurricane."

an unexpected and usually dangerous situation needing immediate attention or action

"Call 911 in an emergency."

"In case of an emergency please call the ambulance immediately and stay calm while waiting for help."

the rising of a body of water that covers dry places and causes damage

"The flood covered the village."

"The heavy rain caused a dangerous flash flood that swept away cars and forced many families to leave their homes in a hurry."

the rapid spread of an infectious disease within a specific population, community, or region, affecting a significant number of individuals at the same time

"The epidemic spread very fast."

"The government implemented strict quarantine measures to control the epidemic before it reached neighboring countries."

a situation where there is not enough food that causes hunger and death

"Famine causes many deaths yearly."

"A man-made famine is a catastrophic food crisis caused directly by political decisions"

a situation where radioactive materials are released from a nuclear facility, posing environmental and health dangers

"A nuclear accident is dangerous."

"The nuclear accident released dangerous radiation into the surrounding environment."