Natural disasters

Natural hazards reflect processes in geomorphic systems and often result in qualitative and quantitative landscape transformation. Degree of collision between man and natural hazards determines the extent of such spatial transformation, which is reflected both through objective (physio- and sociogeographic forms and processes) and subjective (behavioral) consequences. Two or more natural hazards of the same kind, genesis, spatial extent and intensity, can cause two entirely different situations regarding the degree of transformation of all geographical sub-systems (physiogeographic, humangeographic and economical sub-system). In such a way, hazards of the same kind obtain particular, individual attributes resulting from the conditions in the affected area. These conditions can be evaluated by the help of geographic information systems and include: geomorphological characteristics of region, including spatial organization of relief forms and geomorphic processes, as well as structural and urbanistic characteristics of settlements, population culture and habits, diversity of public services, structure of broader social community and its geographical features, as well as time of the day and season in which the disaster occurred. On the basis of such criteria, the project will result in comparative analysis of areas most prone to natural hazards in the Soča River valley (Slovenia) and Velika Morava River valley (Serbia). The aim of the project is to determine to which extent the geographical structure of the area influences the diversity of effects of natural hazards when they have similar genesis, dynamics and intensity.