Is this the right Question?

The NZ Herald has a headline this morning

Summer reads.  Earthquakes, eruptions, floods -what science learned about natural disasters in 2024.

These natural events happen all the time. Scientists know what they are and have pondered these events forever.

There will always be different interpretations about the whys and wherefores when it comes to natural events .That is a given. Are they a disaster  ? Well given the possibility of a large magnitude event then , yes they can be a disaster.

Maybe the question is what have politicians and the public learned about natural disasters?

We do not appear to have thinking politicians any longer. They do not exist.

 Disasters get in the way. They cost money  and disrupt normal life. Throw money at the problem (as little as possible) and hope people move on .

It could be beneficial for politicians to engage with a range of scientists to follow up on extreme events and discuss any changes that can be made to better respond to these events and identify flaws in the system. I say a range of scientists as it is not good enough to only consult with Government funded advisors .

It could also be useful to discuss events with people who have years of experience living in areas hit by 

disasters and add their valued knowledge   to the scientists in formulating future responses.

A blend of ideas offers a better base to work from.