Natural Disasters Throughout South America

Human Development Index: Natural Disasters

Throughout South America, there is widespread poverty. The continent is also very susceptible to natural disasters. Unfortunately, these two negative characteristics do not work well together and can destroy any country that wields them. Venezuela and Peru in Latin America are two countries that are poor-stricken. The GDP per capita in Venezuela is $13,200 and in Peru $10,700. Although these numbers are low, some ppitifulcountries sport even lower numbers. In both countries, however, the life expectancy rate and literacy rate are high, with people living on average for 73 years and about 93% of the population being able to read and write.

Of course, there are dozens of countries in the world that have higher rates, but I think for South America it is pretty good. In Venezuela earthquakes are common; happens to be that it is the most recent natural disaster to occur in the country. There are no reported deaths, though.

In Peru, flooding occurs frequently and is also the most recent natural disaster to occur there, in the Arequipa region.

Six people died in the flooding damage.

I could not find anything for either country about any systems or programs that are implemented to deal with possible natural disasters that can cause tons of damage. If these countries hope to prevent future disaster tolls, they must establish more “buffers” to reduce the results of a natural disaster, or at least for reliable restoration from the damage. I think both countries would benefit from a stash of emergency money that can be used to alleviate the destruction of natural disasters.

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Also, they could formulate a natural disaster team of construction and sanitation workers who would work voluntarily to restore their country. The reality of these programs is debatable, especially the first; the real question is: where will the money come from for this supply in such poor countries? This is the only real issue; taxes could be implemented, but I am sure that citizens already struggle to pay those with low income. The second idea seems rather realistic, but it all depends on who wants to join this gang to lend a helping hand. I think it should be the government’s responsibility to demonstrate how vulnerable people truly are in poor countries like Venezuela and Peru. Their power allows them to make the entire world aware of the facts. However, the individuals who feel that they are vulnerable and that things are not being properly handled to attempt to reduce their vulnerability should deficient more so the government hear their pleas. Large masses can work wonders, especially in the form of protest, towards the government to get them to do things for them, the people. I do not think Venezuela and Peru as a whole are already aware of the relationship between poverty and natural disasters; they have no programs implemented and there does not seem to be any advancement toward a relief system according to my research. It is likely due to the governments’ selfishness (which is an issue in many countries) and their lack of care for the poor and vulnerable. I also think that common people just do not know what to do to help themselves; I saw a picture during my research that showed police officers standing and observing common citizens helping common citizens out of danger as a result of Peru’s flooding. Is that not their job? It is confusing to me.

Global warming will affect the entire world. In Peru the flooding will certainly increase as a result of the melting of polar ice caps; the continent of South America is so close to Antarctica that it might as well be a direct hit from them. Although Venezuela is in northern South America and to the east of the central strip connecting it with North America, it may not increase the risk of earthquakes, but temperatures will certainly be augmented as in most of the world. In both regions, the weather will be affected. Global warming is unavoidable; perhaps natural disaster programs can work to reverse its effects in addition to their main goals.