Natural Disasters

Floods have shaped landscapes, destroyed cities and taken lives for centuries. This list that starts with the worst flood in history looks at some of the most catastrophic floods in recorded history, from natural disasters fueled by heavy rain to human-engineered failures that ended in tragedy.

By Zach Taras

On March 18, 1925, a massive and terrifying storm tore through the Midwest, becoming the Tri-State Tornado, the deadliest tornado in United States history.

By Zach Taras

These spinning columns of air are some of the most violent storms on Earth, capable of tearing apart entire towns in seconds. The most powerful winds ever recorded have been associated with intense tornadoes, making them one of nature's most destructive forces.

By Zach Taras

Wildfires have shaped landscapes, ecosystems and human history for centuries. Some of the deadliest wildfires have burned across millions of acres, leaving behind devastation and reshaping the way we manage fire-prone environments.

By Zach Taras

California has long been a hotspot for devastating wildfires, with its dry climate, strong winds and rugged terrain creating the perfect conditions for destruction.

By Zach Taras

Wildfires have profoundly shaped the landscape and history of the United States, leaving behind tales of devastation and resilience. While the infamous Great Chicago Fire of 1871 is often remembered for its urban destruction, the nation's forests and wildlands have witnessed even more extensive blazes.

By Yara Simón

Earthquakes are among the most powerful natural forces on Earth, often causing widespread devastation, triggering tsunamis and altering the landscape of a region. But how strong was the strongest earthquake of all time?

By Marie Look

If you're lucky, you've never seen a tsunami in person, but you know that this type of massive wave can cause enormous damage. They can be measured, too, which easily leads to the question: What was the largest tsunami ever recorded?

By Zach Taras

The U.S. government is investing over US$7 billion in the coming years to try to manage the nation's escalating wildfire crisis. That includes a commitment to treat at least 60 million acres in the next 10 years by expanding forest-thinning efforts and controlled burns.

By Jamie Peeler

Discover the impact of a Category 3 hurricane. Explore its characteristics and effects. Understand the force of a Category 3 hurricane today.

By HowStuffWorks

Discover the impact of a Category 1 hurricane. Explore its features and effects. Understand the dynamics of Category 1 hurricanes today.

By HowStuffWorks

Explore the impact of Hurricane Katrina. Understand its devastation and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Katrina today.

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Explore the impact of Hurricane Irma. Understand its path and effects. Learn about the history of Hurricane Irma today.

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Explore the impact of Hurricane Sandy. Understand its destruction and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Sandy today.

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Explore the impact of Hurricane Ida. Understand its path and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Ida today.

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Explore the impact of Hurricane Harvey. Understand its devastation and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Harvey today.

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Explore the impact of Hurricane Andrew. Understand its devastation and historical significance. Learn about Hurricane Andrew today.

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Explore the impact of Hurricane Maria. Understand its devastation and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Maria today.

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Explore the impact of Hurricane Michael. Understand its devastation and aftermath. Learn about the history of Hurricane Michael today.

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Discover how a hurricane forms. Explore the process of hurricane formation and its stages. Uncover the science behind hurricanes.

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Typhoon vs. Hurricane: Uncover the differences and similarities between these powerful tropical storms. Learn about their formation and impact.

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Hurricane Charley: Unveiling the Impact and Aftermath of this Devastating Storm. Explore its path, damage, and lessons learned.

By HowStuffWorks

California Hurricane: Exploring the Rare Phenomenon and Potential Impacts. Learn about the history, preparation, and coastal vulnerability.

By HowStuffWorks

When is Hurricane Season? Discover the crucial dates and regions of hurricane occurrence. Learn how to prepare and stay safe.

By HowStuffWorks

Unearth the Worst Hurricanes in US History: Catastrophic storms that shaped landscapes, impacted communities, and left indelible marks on the nation.

By HowStuffWorks