Will the world end on December 21, 2012? What we know and don't know about forecasting natural disasters

Science Daily takes a closer look at natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, lanslides, wildfires, hurricanes, storms, floods, magnetic storms, etc. and the extent to which today's science is able to predict such events. The article concludes that 'The question to consider on December 21, 2012, and every day is: Have I done everything I can to ensure that my family and I are prepared, should a disaster strike?' 'Natural disasters will continue to occur, on any given day, but a more informed scientific understanding can lead to better preparedness and safer communities.'