Magill's Choice : Notable Natural Disasters

Notable Natural Disasters combines clearly explained scientific concepts with gripping narrative details about memorable disasters. It focuses on events caused, at least in part, by uncontrollable forces of nature. So, though human error played a role in many iceberg collisions, natural conditions were clearly a cause. Decisions were also made regarding scope and focus. For example, only wildfires affecting cities or whole regions are addressed, rather than tragic blazes in single buildings such as hotels or theaters.

The set begins with disaster overviews by type. Each essay explains the disaster in scientific terms. First, a few sentences define the natural phenomenon and its importance. Then the factors involved (e.g. chemical reactions, ice, wind) and the regions affected (cities, coasts, forests) are listed. Subsections to overviews discuss the science behind the phenomenon lay terms. Sections such as "Prevention and Preparations" and "Rescue and Relief Efforts" further illuminate disasters.