What is another word for catastrophes?
Pronunciation: [kɐtˈastɹəfɪz] (IPA) 
The word "catastrophes" refers to events or situations that bring about great damage or loss. Synonyms for this term include disasters, calamities, catastrophics, misfortunes, tragedies, and mishaps. All these words have a common thread of negative consequences for people, things, and the environment. Disasters can be natural, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, or they can be man-made, such as oil spills or nuclear accidents. Similarly, calamities can be sudden and shocking, such as a house fire, or gradual and prolonged, such as a drought. No matter what word we use to describe such events, what remains important is our preparedness and response to them- to minimize damage and loss and to prevent future catastrophes.
