How do geological hazards affect communities?

Geological hazards, such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, and volcanic eruptions, pose significant risks to both lives and infrastructure, making this the correct choice. These hazards can lead to catastrophic loss of life, injuries, and long-term psychological impacts on affected communities. In terms of infrastructure, geological hazards can damage roads, bridges, buildings, and utilities, disrupting essential services and leading to substantial economic costs for repair and recovery. The disruption of community services and economic activity can have lasting effects, making recovery a complicated and prolonged process.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the impacts of geological hazards. For instance, the notion that such hazards increase economic growth overlooks the destructive consequences they often bring. Rather than fostering urban expansion, geological hazards typically create challenges that can hinder growth and development, as communities may need to divert resources towards disaster recovery rather than new construction. The idea that these hazards have no significant impact fails to consider the profound effects they have on safety, health, and community resilience. Overall, understanding the serious implications of geological hazards is crucial for effective risk management and community planning.