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'Seismic hazards will always be harder to manage than volcanic hazards due to their unpredictability and scale.' To what extent do you agree with this view? - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 5
'Seismic hazards will always be harder to manage than volcanic hazards due to their unpredictability and scale.' To what extent do you agree with this view?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Seismic hazards will always be harder to manage than volcanic hazards due to their unpredictability and scale.' To what extent do you agree with this view? - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Introduction and Overview
Answer
In discussing whether seismic hazards are harder to manage than volcanic hazards, it is essential to recognize the characteristics of both types of disasters. Seismic hazards, such as earthquakes, are often unpredictable and can strike with little to no warning. In contrast, volcanic hazards, including lava flows and ash clouds, can frequently be monitored for activity, allowing for some level of preparedness. This essay will explore these differences and consider to what extent I agree with the statement.
Step 2
Unpredictability of Seismic Hazards
Answer
Seismic events are notoriously difficult to predict. Earthquakes can occur suddenly with immense force, as seen in the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake in Japan, which resulted in widespread destruction and over 18,000 death tolls. The lack of effective primary warning systems for earthquakes poses a real challenge for disaster management efforts. This unpredictability can hinder preparation and response strategies, making management more complex.
Step 3
Comparison with Volcanic Hazards
Answer
On the other hand, volcanic hazards often have a more predictable nature. For instance, monitoring seismic activity and gas emissions from volcanoes can provide crucial early warnings. The 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption in Iceland illustrated how monitoring systems could effectively forecast eruptions, allowing for evacuations and adjustments to air travel impacting millions. The ability to predict volcanic eruptions contrasts sharply with the often abrupt nature of seismic events.
Step 4
Management Strategies for Seismic Hazards
Answer
The management of seismic hazards often focuses on building codes, infrastructure resilience, and emergency preparedness. Countries like Japan have developed strict building regulations and disaster response systems, however, the sheer unpredictability of seismic events means that these measures can never guarantee complete safety. As such, managing the risk associated with earthquakes is a continual challenge that requires significant resources and adaptation.
Step 5
Management Strategies for Volcanic Hazards
Answer
Conversely, the management of volcanic hazards can benefit from a combination of geological monitoring and public education. Authorities can utilize existing technology to issue warnings and create comprehensive evacuation plans, minimizing impacts. Education on volcanic behaviors enhances community preparedness. Nevertheless, volcanic eruptions can still pose risks that challenge management capabilities, particularly in densely populated regions.
Step 6
Conclusion and Personal Opinion
Answer
In conclusion, while both seismic and volcanic hazards present their unique management challenges, the unpredictability of seismic hazards generally makes them harder to manage. Volcanic hazards, while certainly dangerous, offer opportunities for prediction and preparedness that can mitigate their impacts. Therefore, it is reasonable to agree with the statement, acknowledging the complexities involved in managing both types of hazards.