A situation or social process triggered by the manifestation of a phenomenon of natural, socio - natural or anthropic origin that, when combined with conditions of vulnerability in a population and its productive structure and infrastructure, causes an intense, serious and extended disruption of the normal functioning of the affected country, region, area or community, which, in many cases, cannot be addressed or solved independently using the resources available to the directly - affected social unit. These disruptions take on diverse and differentiated forms, and are represented by the loss of life and health of the population; the total or partial destruction, loss or disablement of assets of the community or individuals; and by severe environmental damages; requiring an immediate response by the authorities and thepopulation to help the affected community and restore acceptable thresholds of well - being and life opportunities.
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