Natural disasters often dominate global news and understanding them can be essential if you are in an English-speaking country. This reference covers the different types of natural disasters and the vocabulary you need to discuss these events. You will find a list of natural disasters and severe weather, along with examples and pictures.
Contents
Natural Disasters Vocabulary
A natural disaster is a major adverse event resulting from natural processes of the Earth; examples include floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunami, and other geologic processes.
- Snow
- Snowstorm
- Avalanche
- Flood
- Landslide
- Lightening
- Earthquake
- Forest fire
- Fog
- Storm
- Volcanic eruption
- Drought
- Rain
- Drizzle
- Explosion
Natural Disasters Vocabulary with Pictures
Learn these names of natural disasters to improve your English words about weather.
Snow
Snow is precipitation in the form of ice crystals that falls from clouds.
- Example: The ski resort was bustling with activity after a fresh snowfall, as skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes to enjoy the new snow.
Snowstorm
A severe winter storm characterized by heavy snowfall, high winds, and low visibility.
- Example: The town was buried under several feet of snow after the snowstorm.
Avalanche
A sudden and rapid flow of snow down a steep slope.
- Example: The skiers were caught in an avalanche while skiing on the mountain.
Flood
An overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry.
- Example: The town was evacuated due to the severe flood caused by heavy rain.
Landslide
The movement of rock, earth, or debris down a slope.
- Example: The road was closed due to a landslide caused by heavy rain.
Lightening
A sudden and powerful electrical discharge in the atmosphere, often accompanied by thunder.
- Example: The tree was struck by lightning during the storm and caught fire.
Earthquake
A sudden and violent shaking of the ground caused by the movement of tectonic plates.
- Example: The city was devastated by a powerful earthquake that destroyed many buildings.
Forest fire
A large and destructive fire that spreads rapidly through a forest.
- Example: The firefighters worked to contain the forest fire that threatened nearby homes.
Fog
A thick cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the air, reducing visibility.
- Example: The driver slowed down due to the thick fog on the road.
Storm
A violent disturbance of the atmosphere with strong winds, rain, thunder, or lightning.
- Example: The boats were anchored in the harbor to ride out the storm.
Volcanic eruption
The sudden and violent release of molten rock, ash, and gas from a volcano.
- Example: The town was covered in ash and debris after the volcanic eruption.
Drought
A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, resulting in a shortage of water.
- Example: The crops withered and died due to the severe drought.
Rain
Precipitation in the form of liquid water droplets falling from the atmosphere.
- Example: The children played outside in the rain and jumped in puddles.
Drizzle
Light rain falling in very fine drops.
- Example: The windshield wipers were turned on to clear the drizzle from the windshield.
Explosion
A sudden and violent release of energy, often resulting in destruction or damage.
- Example: The building was destroyed by the explosion caused by a gas leak.
Learn more: Natural Disasters Worksheets for Kids
- School Subjects Worksheets for Kids - April 28, 2025
- Household Appliances Worksheets for Kids - April 28, 2025
- Free Time Activities Worksheets for Kids - April 28, 2025