Ch 24: Natural Disasters and Climate Change
How nature affects the environment
Written and designed by volunteers: Samuel B., Meerab K.
How Climate Change Increases Disaster Risks
Climate change is a disaster multiplier, intensifying three major threats: water, heat, and coasts. Warmer temperatures lead to heavier rainfall and stronger storms, causing deadly floods and landslides. Rising heat triggers extreme heatwaves and wildfires, destroying ecosystems and endangering lives. Meanwhile, melting ice and rising sea levels are eroding coastlines and driving storm surges that displace entire communities. Climate change is no longer a distant warning it is a present and escalating risk to human survival.
Case Studies: Hurricanes, Floods, Wildfires
This design visually explains how different natural disasters — hurricanes, floods, and wildfires — affect the environment. Each section includes images, icons, and brief points showing the main environmental impacts such as erosion, habitat loss, and pollution. The layout uses color contrasts and overlays to make the information clear and engaging, helping viewers quickly understand how these disasters harm nature in different ways.
Effects on Ecosystems and Communities
Hurricanes bring strong winds and heavy rains that reshape landscapes, destroy habitats, and disrupt communities. Their lasting effects can change the environment and the way people live for years.
Preparing for Resilient Recovery
Natural disasters are a harsh reality, but our recovery doesn't have to repeat the past. This graphic shows the transformation from impact to resilience across our homes, ecosystems, and local systems. By focusing on sustainable rebuilding and ecological restoration, we ensure a greener, stronger future for our communities. Our actions define our recovery—let's build back smarter!
