A calamitous occurrence generated by the effects of natural hazards, rather than human-driven phenomena, that disrupts societal function and produces one or more of the following: great loss of human life, and/or destruction of the natural environment, private property or public infrastructure. A natural disaster may be caused by weather and climate-related events or by earthquakes, landslides and other geologic occurrences that originate at Earth’s surface or from tectonic activity. Natural disasters can have long-lasting effects by changing landscapes and affecting human health, safety and economic prosperity. (Source: Britannica, USGS Natural Hazards)
LA Metro Equity Toolkit