Firefly Guide to Global Hazards

Book excerpt: Practical information about dangers around the world. Instant communication from around the world has raised the level of interest in global hazards. Natural disasters receive immediate coverage, and in some cases their effects can be felt across continents. This book is a compelling, richly illustrated guide to the many large-scale natural disasters that affect and afflict life on Earth -- both globally and locally. Written in clear, understandable terms, Firefly Guide to Global Hazards is essential reading for anyone interested in or concerned about the environment, geophysics and political affairs. The book provides concise descriptions of all types of hazards and the threats they pose. Some of the global hazards covered are: Earthquakes, volcanoes, fires Flooding, coastal erosion, tsunami Hurricanes, tornadoes, winds Avalanches, landslides, snow and ice Desertification, drought, famine, diseases Pollution, ozone depletion, global warming Comets, meteorites, mass extinctions The book uses case histories to explain the causes, effects and some of the solutions for each hazard or disaster. Illustrated with 200 color photographs and drawings and more than 100 maps, charts, tables and diagrams, this book is an encyclopedia for the curious and the concerned.