NH
Natural Hazards

Preparedness

From Classroom to Community: Bridging Disaster Risk Reduction Education with the Real World Through Service-Learning

October 27, 2025
From Classroom to Community: Bridging Disaster Risk Reduction Education with the Real World Through Service-Learning
Students exploring ideas for making uncertainties in natural hazards and risks more visible to the residents of Tübingen as part of a Service-Learning course at the University of Tübingen (Image credit: Iris Schneider)

This week, we turn our attention to education and collaboration in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). Dr. Solmaz Mohadjer has been leading an innovative Service-Learning course that brings students together with non-profit organisations working at the forefront of risk reduction. The course not only introduces students to the complexities of disasters and resilience but also creates space for dialogue ...[Read More]

If a Resilient City Had a Face: It Might Look Like Kagoshima

August 4, 2025
If a Resilient City Had a Face: It Might Look Like Kagoshima
A view of Mt. Sakurajima from the city of Kagoshima (Image credit: Hedieh Soltanpour, June 2025)

As natural hazard scientists, we often emphasise the concept of exposure – how much people, infrastructure, and ecosystems are in harm’s way when close to natural hazard sources (e.g., floodplains, volcanoes, or fault lines). The closer you are, the higher the risk. Therefore, one of the main goals in natural risk assessment is to reduce exposure whenever possible. We advocate for informed plannin ...[Read More]

Be prepared, don’t be scared: Early Warning System Test during Thanksgiving on Cape Cod

May 26, 2025
Be prepared, don’t be scared: Early Warning System Test during Thanksgiving on Cape Cod
Photo credit: Google Earth Pro and icon generated with the help of AI.

This week I think back on my time in the United States of America, where I was able to spend the holiday season. In North America, “fall” marks the beginning of this holiday season, and symbolises a time filled with traditions of togetherness that transcends regions. In New England, particularly in the state of Massachusetts, the season is synonymous with crisp air, vibrant foliage, and the celebr ...[Read More]

Building Disaster Resilience Through Trust and Risk Awareness: Insights into Natural Hazards

February 10, 2025
Building Disaster Resilience Through Trust and Risk Awareness: Insights into Natural Hazards
(image credit: Jaduial, Pixabay licence)

Trust in institutions and scientific experts plays a pivotal role in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). This trust becomes even more critical for natural hazards—events often unpredictable and uncontrollable. Trust can shape individuals’ willingness to heed warnings, adopt precautionary measures, and participate in community preparedness initiatives. Conversely, distrust in institutions may lead to no ...[Read More]