The Earth is a powerful, active, and ever-changing planet. Earthquakes and volcanoes reshape the Earth’s crust with sudden bursts of movement or with eruptions that last decades. Powerful storms develop in the swirling atmosphere, creating cumulonimbus thunderclouds, lightning storms, and even tornadoes or hurricanes. Geological features and moist air conspire to cause floods in one region, and drought in another. This article provides an overview of the natural hazards facing communities today, and illustrates how we can effectively prepare for these hazards in order to minimize their effects on our daily lives.