China

China, with its vast geographic mass and population, has unique challenges in planning and preparing for disaster relief. Historically, China has suffered some of the largest natural disasters ever, at least when judged in terms of loss of life. China has endured six of the world's top 10 deadliest natural disasters, including the top three: the 1931 China floods, in which between two and four million perished; the 1887 Yellow River floods, which caused between one and two million fatalities; and the 1556 Shaanxi earthquake, which resulted in over 800,000 deaths. China's natural propensity for earthquakes and flooding creates an atmosphere where governmental preparation and response is essential. The Chinese government has a great interest in protecting Chinese lives and property. This interest, coupled with ...