Powers of Nature Online Activities

Throughout history, people have been fascinated and frightened by earthquakes, severe storms, volcanoes and other natural disasters. In the U.S., we experience the widest range of natural disasters of any country in the world. Each year, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornados, blizzards and active volcanoes combined cause billions of dollars of property damage, economic devastation and loss of human life. Yet, while vital life-saving information is available to the public, very few people know what to do when a disaster strikes.

Modern science and technology cannot change the magnitude of natural forces, but science can help us to better assess and predict events, assess potential damage and protect ourselves.

The 1990's have been designated the "International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction" by the United Nations. The goal is to "reduce loss of life, property damage, social and economic disruption caused by natural disasters" by "disseminating new and existing information related to assessment, prediction and mitigation of natural disasters." An important aspect of this effort is "to increase public awareness of risk and enhance preparedness" through public education and training.

Powers of Nature builds on the public's keen interest in earthquakes, hurricanes, and other natural phenomena to present vital information on disaster assessment, prediction, protection and mitigation. It also promotes greater understanding of the science and the human stories behind natural phenomena in weather and geology.

"Powers Of Nature" has four sections:

1. Introduction: The power, beauty and destructiveness of natural disasters
2. Our Restless Planet: The global forces behind violent changes in earth and air
3. Weather's Fury: Thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes and blizzards
4. When the Earth Splits: Earthquakes and volcanoes

Exhibit Goals

1. To help visitors understand the science behind earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and severe storms.
2. To help visitors understand how these phenomena are studied and predicted.
3. To help visitors understand the profound effect these phenomena have on individuals and societies and what we can do to protect ourselves.

"Powers Of Nature" Pre/Post Visit Activities

Geology Activities:

• Fit The Continents Together
• Candy Continents
• Slinky Waves
• Handy Earthquakes
• Topple Table
• Record A Quake
• Mt. St. Helens Flipbook
• Make A Volcano Erupt
• Write A Volcano Myth

Weather Activities:

• Make A Cloud
• Photograph The Weather
• Watch The Wind
• Make A Ping-Pong Anemometer
• Make A Barometer
• Make A Hygrometer
• Make A Tornado
• Track A Hurricane
• Who Predicts The Weather Best?
• Weather Bloopers

Activities provided by The Franklin Institute