ClimateAugust 26, 2026
geohazard
JEE-oh-haz-urd
Definition
A geological process or phenomenon that may cause loss of life, injury, or damage to property and infrastructure.
Etymology
The word is a 20th-century compound formed from the Greek 'geo' (earth) and the Old French 'hasard' (a game of chance or risk), denoting a risk originating from natural geological activity.
In the news
In the article, rock glaciers are identified as a potential geohazard because their slow, continuous movement can damage nearby roads, block rivers, or trigger debris flows.
Scientists map rock glaciers on plateau
Read the full article ↗China Daily