Which of the following describes a Rapid Onset disaster?

The choice that identifies a Rapid Onset disaster correctly encompasses events that occur suddenly, without warning, and typically lead to immediate and significant impacts on communities. Hurricanes and volcanic explosions are prime examples of such disasters, as they can develop quickly and often leave little to no time for preparation or evacuation.

Hurricanes can intensify rapidly over a short period, leading to severe wind damage, flooding, and loss of life. Similarly, volcanic eruptions can occur suddenly, unleashing lava flows, ash clouds, and pyroclastic flows, posing immediate threats to nearby populations.

In contrast, the other choices depict scenarios that do not align with the characteristics of rapid onset disasters. Earthquakes and floods can indeed be rapid onset, but not all floods fits this definition as some may develop more gradually. Climate change and drought are examples of slow onset disasters, evolving over extended periods and requiring preparedness planning over time. Continuous forest fires and industrial accidents may both involve rapid incidents, yet the ongoing nature of a continuous fire can categorize it differently compared to one-time rapid events.