"While [Cyclone] Phailin affected up to 8 million people, leaving approximately 600,00 homeless, death tolls are currently estimated to be in the low double digits [though a cyclone of comparable strength in 1999 took 10,000 lives]. What made all the difference between 1999 and today? A much improved early warning system, effective evacuations, and the construction of shelters probably played a crucial role. Credible forecasts and early warnings were available for several days before landfall, and close to one million people were evacuated."
(Me:) The climate is certainly changing and there will be more frequent and more severe storms. But climate is a natural part of the global system. The aftermath of natural storms (often called natural disasters) is almost entirely based on the (unnatural) human infrastructure. Looking at a geographic region and thinking "how horrible" when a hurricane makes landfall is certainly a natural response. But the following disaster can be prevented. We need to work with communities in "disaster-prone" areas to improve the infrastructure, warning systems, and response efforts. If you look at the news, doesn't it seem like it is predominantly poor people and people of color affected by "natural disasters?" I don't think nature has the same prejudices as society.