HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL

HAZARDS
A hydrometeorological hazard is a natural
event or phenomenon caused by the interaction
of weather and water, leading to potential harm
or damage to human life, property, or the
environment. It encompasses hazards resulting
from atmospheric processes (meteorological) and
hydrological processes (related to water).
DIFFERENT
HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL
HAZARDS
• Floods

• Thunderstorms

• Landslides and Mudslides

• Tsunamis
 FLOOD
S

The inundation of land areas due to the overflow of water from rivers, lakes, seas, or excessive rainfall. They
can result from various factors such as heavy precipitation, snowmelt, storm surges, or the failure of dams or
levees. Floods can cause extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, agriculture, and natural habitats, as well as
pose risks to human life and safety.
 THUNDERSTOR
M
Atmospheric disturbances that produce
lightning, thunder, heavy rain, and sometimes hail or
strong winds. These storms typically develop in
warm, moist air masses when atmospheric instability
leads to the rapid upward movement of air, resulting
in the formation of cumulonimbus clouds.
Thunderstorms can occur singly, in clusters, or as
part of larger weather systems such as squall lines or
supercells. They can cause localized flooding,
property damage from lightning strikes or wind
gusts, and pose risks to aviation and outdoor
activities.
LANDSLIDE AND
MUDSLIDE
The rapid movement of rock, soil, and debris
downhill, triggered by heavy rainfall, earthquakes,
volcanic eruptions, or human activities. Landslides
involve the sliding or collapse of slopes, while
mudslides specifically refer to the flow of water
-saturated earth materials down steep slopes, often
carrying mud, rocks, and debris. These events can
result in significant damage to infrastructure,
property, and human lives in affected areas.
 TSUNAMI
S

A Large ocean waves caused by underwater disturbances such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides.
These waves can travel across vast distances and inundate coastal areas with powerful surges of water. Tsunamis can
result in widespread flooding, destruction of infrastructure, loss of life, and long-term environmental impacts. Early
warning systems and preparedness measures are crucial for minimizing the impacts of tsunamis on coastal
communities.
 RECOGNIZING SIGNS OF HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL HAZARDS CAN HELP
COMMUNITIES PREPARE AND RESPOND EFFECTIVELY. HERE ARE SOME
COMMON SIGNS ASSOCIATED WITH DIFFERENT HAZARDS:

THUNDERSTORM
FLOODS
• Darkening skies, frequent lightning, and loud
thunder.
Rising water levels in rivers, streams, or drainage
systems.
• Heavy rainfall, hail, or strong winds accompanying
Intense and prolonged rainfall, especially in areas prone the thunderstorm.
to flooding.
Rapidly flowing water over roadways or low-lying areas. • Severe thunderstorm watches or warnings issued
by meteorological agencies.
• Reports of localized flooding from emergency
services or weather agencies. • Reports of damage from lightning strikes, wind
gusts, or hail.
 Recognizing signs of hydrometeorological hazards can help communities prepare and respond
effectively. Here are some common signs associated with different hazards:

LANDSLIDE AND MUDSLIDE TSUNAMI

• Seismic activity such as earthquakes or underwater

Cracks, bulges, or movement of soil and rocks along slopes
or cliffs.
Unusual sounds such as rumbling or snapping from unstable
terrain.
Heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt preceding the event.
• Previous history of landslides in the area.
volcanic eruptions.
• Abnormal changes in sea level, including the sudden
retreat or advance of the ocean.
• Reports of unusual wave activity from coastal areas or
offshore monitoring stations.
• Tsunami warnings or advisories issued by tsunami
warning centers or meteorological agencies.

Recognizing these signs and staying informed through official weather alerts and emergency communications
can help individuals and communities take timely actions to mitigate the impacts of hydrometeorological
hazards.