2 cissp ® Official Study Guide Eighth Edition

Natural Disasters
Natural disasters
reflect the occasional fury of our habitat—violent occurrences that result 
from changes in the earth’s surface or atmosphere that are beyond human control. In some 
cases, such as hurricanes, scientists have developed sophisticated predictive models that 
provide ample warning before a disaster strikes. Others, such as earthquakes, can cause 
devastation at a moment’s notice. A disaster recovery plan should provide mechanisms for 
responding to both types of disasters, either with a gradual buildup of response forces or as 
an immediate reaction to a rapidly emerging crisis.
Earthquakes
Earthquakes are caused by the shifting of seismic plates and can occur almost anywhere in 
the world without warning. However, they are far more likely to occur along known fault 
lines that exist in many areas of the world. A well-known example is the San Andreas Fault, 
which poses a significant risk to portions of the western United States. If you live in a region 
along a fault line where earthquakes are likely, your DRP should address the procedures 
your business will implement should a seismic event interrupt your normal activities.
You might be surprised by some of the regions of the world where earthquakes are con-
sidered possible. Table 18.1 shows parts of the United States (and U.S. territories) that the 
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) considers moderate, high, or very high
seismic hazards. Note that the states listed in the table include 82 percent (41) of the 50 states, 
meaning that the majority of the country has at least a moderate risk of seismic activity.
Ta b l e 18 .1
Seismic hazard level by U.S. state or territory
Moderate seismic hazard
High seismic hazard
Very high seismic hazard
Alabama
American Samoa
Alaska
Colorado
Arizona
California
Connecticut
Arkansas
Guam
Delaware
Illinois
Hawaii
Georgia
Indiana
Idaho
Maine
Kentucky
Montana
Maryland
Missouri
Nevada
Massachusetts
New Mexico
Oregon
Mississippi
South Carolina
Puerto Rico

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