Natural Hazards Center

Hurricane Matthew

Resources for Understanding Matthew and Other Extreme Coastal Events

As Hurricane Matthew continues to wreak damage in the Carribean and heads for the United States, we've gathered some resources that can be helpful to those seeking further information on this event and hurricanes in general.

Who Needs a Shooter?

Over-Alert Crowds Can Spawn Baseless Panic

By Jolie Breeden

A series of incidents where crowds fled from loud noises highlights the difficulty of responding to incidents where the most pressing threat is mass panic.

Our Next Director

Lori Peek Chosen to Lead Natural Hazards Center

By Jolie Breeden

Award-winning sociologist, author, and disaster scholar Lori Peek will take over as the Natural Hazards Center's next director in January.

Stop that Racket!

Preventing Mafia Meddling in Italy's Earthquake Reconstruction Efforts

By Elke Weesjes Sabella

As Central Italy begins the daunting task of recovering from a 6.2 magnitude earthquake that struck last month, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi is taking steps to stop rebuilding—rebuilding by companies with mafia ties, that is.

Plan for the Worst and Hope for the Best

Basic Disaster Response Plan Guidelines for Libraries

By Miriam Kahn and Elke Weesjes Sabella

To ensure an effective response and to minimize interruptions and damage, libraries need to prepare for disasters.