Potentially active volcanoes in the United States exist mainly in Hawaii, Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. When pressure builds up within a volcano's molten rock, it has the potential to erupt, sending forth lava flows, poisonous gases and flying rock and ash that can travel hundreds of miles.
Tornadoes are nature's most violent storms. Keep in mind that while tornadoes are more common in the Midwest, Southeast and Southwest, they can occur in any state and at any time of the year, making advance preparation vitally important.
Hurricanes are severe tropical storms that form in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and the eastern Pacific Ocean. Scientists can predict hurricanes, but people who live in coastal communities should plan what they will do if they need to evacuate.
An average of 1.2 million acres of U.S. woodland burn each year and more than four out of every five wildfires are caused by people. If you live where there is an abundance of plants that can easily catch fire, you may be vulnerable to wildfires and you should be prepared.
An earthquake is the sudden, rapid shaking of the earth, caused by the breaking and shifting of subterranean rock. While earthquakes are believed to be a West Coast phenomenon, there are 45 states in the U.S. that are at moderate to high risk for earthquake.
Flooding is the nation's most common natural disaster. Flooding can happen in every state and territory. It's important to be prepared for flooding no matter where you live, but particularly if you are in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam.
