Preface

In a world constantly shaped by the forces of nature, humankind has always sought to understand and mitigate the impacts of natural hazards. These formidable events have the power to reshape landscapes, alter ecosystems, and dramatically affect human lives. From devastating floods that engulf entire communities to the relentless tremors of earthquakes that shake the very foundations of our existence, natural hazards have remained an enduring challenge throughout history.

*Natural Hazards – New Insights* explores the intricate realm of natural hazards, exploring the multifaceted nature of flooding, earthquakes, meteoritical hazards, miningrelated disasters, and other major catastrophes that afflict our planet. In this book, we embark on a journey to gain a deeper understanding of these phenomena, unearthing novel perspectives and fresh insights into their causes, impacts, and the strategies employed to mitigate their effects. The book consists of six sections.

In Section 1, "The Hazards We Face: An In-Depth Exploration", we begin with a perspective chapter that offers readers a global view of natural hazards. This chapter serves as a foundation for understanding the diverse range of hazards that exist worldwide and the challenges they pose. Moving forward, we delve into the realm of seismic hazards. Chapter 2 focuses on probabilistic seismic vulnerability and loss assessment. By employing advanced statistical techniques and models, this chapter explores the estimation of potential damage and losses caused by earthquakes. Chapter 3 takes a more localized approach by presenting a seismic hazard assessment of North Chhattisgarh.

In Section 2, "Ground-Shaking Threats: A Closer Look at Earthquake Hazards", Chapter 4 analyzes and predicts earthquakes using the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) model. This model aids in understanding earthquake patterns and characteristics. By forecasting earthquake occurrences, it provides valuable insights for preparedness and response efforts. Chapter 5 focuses on urban damage assessment following the Mw 5.8 Silivri earthquake in Turkey. Chapter 6 explores crustal faults that were reactivated during the 2010 Mw 8.8 Maule earthquake in Chile. It investigates the mechanisms and processes involved in fault reactivation and the resulting seismic hazards. Chapter 7 introduces the "natural time" method, a novel approach used to assess the potential for earthquake occurrence. Chapter 8 focuses on the seismic conditions required to cause structural failures. Chapter 9 presents new insights into major seismic events using Coulomb stress analysis. By studying the stress transfer and interactions between faults, this analysis provides valuable information on the occurrence and behavior of earthquakes.

In Section 3, "Water's Wrath: Examining Flooding as a Natural Hazard", we shift our focus to the devastating effects of flooding as a natural hazard. Chapter 10 delves into hydrological extremes in the Western Himalayas, analyzing trends and patterns in extreme precipitation and river discharge. Chapter 11 focuses on integrating Google

Earth and decametric sensors for flood mapping and analysis. Chapter 12 explores the interconnection among river flow levels, sediment transport, and flood hazards. Chapter 13 addresses risk reduction strategies for floods, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive approaches that combine structural and non-structural measures. Chapter 14 investigates the spatial-temporal relations of flood risk and its prediction.

Finally, we would also like to extend our appreciation to IntechOpen for initiating this book and for their invaluable support and guidance throughout the publication process. Their commitment to disseminating knowledge and fostering scholarly

**Mohammad Mokhtari**

University of Hormozgan, Bandar-Abbas, Iran

Tsunami and Earthquake Research Centre (TERC),

Professor,

works has been pivotal in bringing this book to fruition.

Section 4, "From Climate Changes to Hurricanes: Exploring the Range of Climatological Hazards", focuses on climatological hazards and their diverse manifestations. Chapter 15 focuses on conducting a meticulous vulnerability assessment of process vessels in the face of hurricanes. Process vessels, including industrial infrastructure and storage facilities, are particularly susceptible to the destructive forces unleashed by these climatological hazards. Chapter 16 explores the intricate relationship between climate change and natural hazards. Chapter 17 highlights new remote sensing technologies and their applications in pre-disaster planning and postdisaster assessment. Chapter 18 focuses on the evolution of agroclimatic indicators in Senegal, shedding light on the impacts of climate change on agriculture and food security.

In Section 5, "Slopes in Motion: Exploring Landslides as Natural Hazards", we delve into the realm of landslides as significant natural hazards. Chapter 19 explores the role of polarization analysis in reducing natural hazards caused by landslides. This chapter highlights the potential of remote sensing technologies to enhance landslide risk management. Chapter 20 focuses on landslide assessment and hazard zonation in the Birbir Mariam district of the Gamo highlands. It presents a case study that combines field investigations, geotechnical analysis, and geospatial techniques to assess landslide susceptibility and delineate hazard zones. Chapter 21 delves into underground coal mining methods and their impact on slope stability.

Finally, Section 6, "When Disasters Strike: Navigating the Social Challenges of Natural Hazards", addresses the social challenges that arise when disasters strike. It focuses on the psychological reactions of individuals, the role of spontaneous volunteers, urban planning responses to disasters, and social vulnerability to earthquake hazards. Chapter 22 explores the psychological reactions that individuals experience after disasters. Chapter 23 examines the role of spontaneous volunteers in emergencies and disasters. Chapter 24 discusses trends in urban planning and responses to disasters. Chapter 25 analyzes social vulnerability to earthquake hazards. It examines the underlying factors that contribute to differential impacts and outcomes among different social groups during earthquakes.

It is my hope that this exploration of natural hazards will serve as a stepping stone towards a future where we can effectively navigate the challenges and minimize the risks of natural hazards and build a safer and more sustainable environment for generations to come.

Before we conclude, we would like to mention that the presented chapters have been peer-reviewed and accepted for publication. Hence, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the authors who have contributed their expertise and insights to this book. Their dedication and passion for understanding and addressing the hazards we face have been instrumental in shaping this comprehensive exploration.

Finally, we would also like to extend our appreciation to IntechOpen for initiating this book and for their invaluable support and guidance throughout the publication process. Their commitment to disseminating knowledge and fostering scholarly works has been pivotal in bringing this book to fruition.
