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Gray, rectangular map of the world with various green icons on it. Caption explains image.
The icons on the above map show the locations of natural hazards observed by NASA satellites. Choose one to see the latest image associated with that natural hazard event, or select one of the sections from our topic list to learn more about these extreme events.Chaiten Volcano Erupts - May 12, 2008Cyclone Nargis Floods Burma (Myanmar) - May 09, 2008Dust over the Persian Gulf - May 08, 2008Fires in Mexico and Guatemala - May 08, 2008Cyclone Nargis - May 07, 2008

Earth scientists around the world use NASA satellite imagery to better understand the causes and effects of natural hazards. The goal in sharing these images is to help people visualize where and when natural hazards occur, and to help mitigate their effects. All images in this section are freely available to the public for re-use or re-publication (please use credits as indicated for each image). More images can be found in our archive of older events. Check out our related links.

This Week's Events

* Volcanoes: Chaiten Volcano Erupts
Dormant for more than 9,000 years, the Chaiten Volcano in southern Chile began to erupt on May 2, 2008, forcing thousands of residents from their homes. On May 6, the volcano's activity intensified, sending a plume 30 kilometers skyward. 6 Images, Updated: May 12, 2008
* Floods: Cyclone Nargis Floods Burma (Myanmar)
The first cyclone of the season in the northern Indian Ocean was a devastating one for Burma (Myanmar). At least 20,000 people were killed, and thousands more were missing as of May 9,2008. 5 Images, Updated: May 09, 2008
* Dust & Smoke: Dust over the Persian Gulf
Thick dust hovered over the northern tip of the Persian Gulf in early May 2008. 1 Image, Posted: May 08, 2008
* Fires: Fires in Mexico and Guatemala
Fires are common in southern Mexico and northern Central America during the February-May dry season. In early May 2008, scores of fires were burning across the Yucatan and Guatemala. 2 Images, Updated: May 08, 2008
* Severe Storms: Cyclone Nargis
The formation of Tropical Cyclone Nargis in the Bay of Bengal in late April 2008 coincided with the start of cyclone season in the North Indian Ocean. The storm hit Burma (Myanmar) in the first week of May, killing tens of thousands of people. 5 Images, Updated: May 07, 2008

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