Natural circumstances of natural disasters in Poland and Greece – disasters and causes

Natural disasters are phenomena that can threaten life, property and the environment. Each region of the world faces different types of natural disasters due to unique geographical, climatic and geological conditions. Poland and Greece provide an excellent example of the contrasting challenges of natural disasters. Poland is dominated by floods, droughts and violent storms, while Greece mainly struggles with forest fires, earthquakes and seasonal floods. This article looks at the causes, types and long-term effects of these phenomena in both countries.

1.Natural disasters in Poland

1. Floods – a hazard associated with rivers and lowland areas In Poland, floods are one of the most common natural hazards. Their intensity and frequency have increased in recent decades, which is closely linked to global climate change. Intense rainfall and so-called torrential rains lead to a rapid increase of water in rivers. Rivers such as the Vistula, the Oder and the Warta flow through large areas of the country, which means that the flood risk covers both agricultural and urbanised areas.

Causes of flooding in Poland:

Intense precipitation – particularly exacerbated in spring, during snowmelt, and in summer, when storms with intense rainfall occur.

Hydrological disturbances – lack of retention reservoirs and inadequate water management increase the risk of urban flooding.

Climate change – rising temperatures and changes in atmospheric circulation lead to more frequent and intense rainfall.

Floods in Poland lead to significant property damage and long-term changes in ecosystems. Soils and plant habitats can be permanently transformed, affecting biodiversity and the quality of agricultural land. Investment in reservoirs and dykes is crucial, but flood protection remains a major challenge.

2.Natural Disasters in Greece

Types of Disasters

1. Earthquakes: Greece lies at the junction of several tectonic plates, making it one of the most seismic countries in Europe. Earthquakes can lead to significant damage, as was the case during the 1999 Athens quake, which destroyed many buildings and caused loss of life.

2. Forest fires: During the summer, Greece suffers from high temperatures and low humidity, which is conducive to fires. The 2007 fires in the Peloponnese region killed many people and destroyed large areas of forest.

3. Floods: Although floods are less frequent than in Poland, intense rainfall, especially in mountainous areas, can lead to serious flood events. An example is the 2017 floods in Athens.

Causes

Seismic activity: Greece is located in a zone of intense tectonic activity, which increases the risk of earthquakes. Geological conditions, such as the presence of numerous faults, mean that shocks can be very strong.

Climatic connditions: The Mediterranean climate is characterised by long, hot summers and short, rainy winters. Climatic changes can lead to prolonged periods of drought and an increased risk of wildfires.

Urbanisation: Intensive development along the coast and in the mountains increases the risk of landslides and reduces natural barriers against the elements.

3. Consequences of Natural Disasters

Poland

Economic:
Storms lead to large financial losses. The reconstruction of damaged infrastructure, support for those affected and crisis management generate significant public expenditure.

Social:
Disasters affect the lives of residents, leading to loss of homes, livelihoods and security. In the long term, this can lead to internal migration and a reduced quality of life.

Greece

Economic:
The devastation caused by earthquakes and fires has a major impact on tourism, which is one of the key sectors of the Greek economy. The costs of reconstruction and rehabilitation of the affected areas are enormous.

Social:
Loss of life and health, destruction of communities and changes in demographics are major consequences of natural disasters in Greece. Residents often have to cope with trauma and the loss of loved ones

4. Conclusions and Recommendations

1.Education and awareness: It is crucial to increase public awareness of the risks of natural disasters. Education programmes should target different age groups in order to effectively prepare the public for possible risks.

2. Risk management:
The development and implementation of comprehensive risk management plans that take climate change into account is essential. These should include both prevention and disaster response.

3. Investment in infrastructure:
The modernisation and development of flood control infrastructure, the construction of embankments, drainage systems and fire protection are key to minimising the impact of disasters.

4. International cooperations: The exchange of experiences between countries and cooperation in research and technology related to disaster management can benefit both countries. EU programmes and other forms of cooperation can support prevention activities.

Both Poland and Greece must adapt their strategies to the changing climate and the increasing risk of natural disasters. Only through an integrated approach and action at multiple levels is it possible to minimise the impact of disasters and protect the lives and property of residents.

Made by:

Jakub Smółka

Bartosz Górz