Unnatural disasters

Ecologically, socially, and economically, many regions are now vulnerable and ill prepared for the onslaught of storms, floods, and other hazards. The pressures of poverty, population growth, and inequitable land rights had forced more and more people into vulnerable areas such as steep hillsides and unprotected riverbanks. To date, much of the response to disasters has focused on improving weather predictions before the events and providing clean-up and humanitarian relief afterward, both of which have without doubt helped save many lives. Yet much more can be done.