| Date | November 2017 | Marks available | 2 | Reference code | 17N.2.bp.07 |
| Level | SL and HL | Paper | 2 | Time zone | |
| Command term | Describe | Question number | 07 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
The diagram shows the deaths and economic losses resulting from tropical storms in Mexico, before and after the introduction of an early warning system.
[Source: adapted from Víctor Orlando Magaña Rueda et al. (2014). El sistema de alerta temprana ante ciclones tropicales desde una perspectiva de riesgo. H2O Gestión del agua 1, January–March 2014. Revista auxiliar de difusión del Sistema de Aguas de la Ciudad de México. Published by Helios Comunicación]
With reference to the diagram, describe the changes in number of deaths
With reference to the diagram, describe the changes in economic losses.
Suggest reasons for the changes you identified in (a) for number of deaths.
Suggest reasons for the changes you identified in (a) for economic losses.
Examine the factors that affect the choice of adjustments before, and responses after, tectonic (earthquake/volcanic) hazard events.
Markscheme
For example, there has been some reduction in the number of lives lost over time/since 2000 [1], but some storms still resulted in large losses of life, for example 150 deaths in 2013 [1].
Award maximum [1] if no quantification.
There has been a rapid increase in economic losses over time [1], for example 78 billion pesos in 2013 [1].
Award maximum [1] if no quantification.
The early warning system has had some effect in reducing loss of lives, because people are warned of an impending storm and can be better prepared [1], but the warning may not reach the more vulnerable sectors of the population [1], early warning predictions may not always be accurate because the tropical storm tracks may change [1].
Accept other valid suggestions such as details of preparation, evacuation, education, etc.
The sharp increase in economic losses may reflect an increase in the value of economic development/infrastructure/housing [1]. However, buildings may have been sufficiently modified to withstand the effects of storms [1]; and the local effects may be unequal, affecting vulnerable coastal communities in particular [1].
Accept other valid suggestions.
Possible adjustments before the hazard event include: prediction and forecasting; warning systems; land-use planning/zoning; insurance. Possible responses include short-term (rescue) and long-term (rehabilitation and reconstruction). Factors affecting the choice include level of economic development, perception of the hazard by individuals and communities.
Good answers may show a good knowledge and understanding of a range of possible adjustments and responses after a tectonic hazard event. These should be short-term, mid-term and long-term responses, and might distinguish between rescue, rehabilitation and reconstruction responses. They may also examine the factors affecting the choice of adjustments to the hazard event, such as perception, politics and level of economic development. Another approach might be to examine the range of choices made by individuals, civil society,
governments, and so on.
For band D, expect a description of some basic adjustments and responses with reference to tectonic hazard(s).
For band E, expect either a more detailed explanation of possible adjustments and responses to tectonic hazards, and the factors that affect choice, or some examination of the difficulties affecting the choice.
For band F, expect both of these elements.
Marks should be allocated according to the markbands.
