Human Impacts on Geological Events Analysis

This white paper provides an analysis of human impacts on geological events and hazards, focusing on their potential effects on the United States. The document begins by discussing the importance of understanding historical events to prepare for and mitigate natural hazards. It emphasizes that while natural hazards fluctuate, human activities have been shown to influence their frequency and severity. The paper details specific geological hazards, including earthquakes, sinkholes, erosion, and landslides, and examines how human actions, such as oil and gas extraction and urban development, contribute to these phenomena. For instance, it notes that wastewater disposal has led to increased earthquake activity in Oklahoma, while rising temperatures and sea level changes have been linked to sinkhole formation. The paper concludes by outlining the need for awareness of human contributions to geological hazards and the importance of developing climate analytics to address these challenges effectively.