There are many emergencies and disasters that cant be predicted. There are weather events such as thunderstorms, tornados, rain, or snow that can be predicted. There are however, some type weather and environmental events that may occur within minutes, can cause disaster, and may not be predicted.

Hurricanes can be predicted by meteorologists. Hurricanes initially are called tropical storms that erupt in major oceans, and then move upon land causing what is considered a hurricane. Meteorologists, for example, have the ability to predict when a storm can move upon land, and can label the level of intensity of the storm. Meteorologists cant predict or determine the level of damage that a weather event may cause. There have been various weather events that have occurred all over the United States and the world over the last decade that have caused unpredictable damage and disaster. Earthquakes and tsunamis have the ability to create a major disaster within an area. Not only can strong weather events cause disaster, but other events such as nuclear contamination, radiation, and contamination from other harmful agents over an area have the potential to cause an emergency or disaster.

When disasters happen, there must be someone, or some agency prepared to respond. The American Red Cross employees and volunteers have trained individuals to respond in disaster events. The American Red Cross employees and volunteers, military personnel, many private organizations, and other emergency response agencies have individuals trained in Emergency Preparedness, Disaster Response, Health Care Response, Disaster Relief, and Emergency Management. Many communities have designated areas that they select for Disaster Shelters. These disaster shelters are pre-designed for housing and caring for individuals relieved from a disaster. In many areas these shelters are stocked and ready at the beginning of a weather season, and or at a moments notice. In the United States there are certain times throughout the year that are considered hurricane season, and there is a time during the year labeled for tornado season as well. During these periods throughout the year, emergency response agencies strive to educate the members of the community about how to prepare, and handle these specific weather events in case of a disaster or emergency. Many trained emergency response personnel are trained to handle and respond to most types of weather and non-weather emergency events.

When a disaster or emergency occurs within a community or area, there are usually organizations and individuals that are ready and willing to provide disaster relief and necessary assistance. Agencies, community groups, trained personnel, and even many community members volunteer their time to aid the disaster relief efforts. When a disaster or state of emergency occurs within an area, state and federal governments usually supply as much prompt disaster relief assistance to the affected area as possible. Medical facilities and health care agencies such as hospitals or acute care clinics are usually prepared for emergency disasters as well. During a disaster or emergency, health care professionals are critical to a disaster response effort in that they are trained to provide the medical care needed cover the individuals affected by a disaster.