The state directly related to the occurrence of a dangerous physical phenomenon or the imminence of one, which requires an immediate reaction and the assistance of the State institutions, the media and the general community. When an event is imminent, there may be confusion, chaos, uncertainty and disorientation among the population. The phase immediately following the impact is characterized by the intense and severe alteration or interruption of the normal functioning or operating of a community, area or region and the minimum conditions necessary for the survival and functioning of the affected social unit. It constitutes a phase or component of a disaster but is not, per se, a substitute notion of disaster. There may be emergency conditions without having a disaster.
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