what is hazard in disaster management

In the field of disaster management, a hazard is defined as a process, phenomenon, or human activity that may cause loss of life, injury, property damage, social and economic disruption, or environmental degradation. Hazards can be natural, anthropogenic, or socionatural in origin, and they are the origins of disasters. They are detrimental to the development of human beings and hinder the sustainability of the world. Hazards may include natural processes such as drought and tropical cyclones, as well as human-induced hazards like industrial accidents or pollution. Understanding and categorizing hazards is essential for effective disaster risk reduction and preparedness, as it allows for the implementation of measures to prevent and reduce hazard exposure and vulnerability to disaster, increase preparedness for response and recovery, and strengthen resilience.