Watch Violent Earth

Violent Earth focuses on where and when the next mega disaster will strike. Join tsunami scientist Jose Borrero of the University of Southern California on his trip to visit Banda Aceh with a National Geographic film team, barely one week after the December 26, 2004, tsunami--a tsunami so strong it actually moved the island of Sumatra a hundred feet.

Hurricane season, from June to November, grips millions with anticipation and fear. The nation's top experts explore their formation, increasing frequency, heightened power, and the science behind surviving these killer storms. Hurricanes covered: Ian (Fort Myers, Florida, 2022); Sandy (New York City, New York, 2012); Patricia (Mexico, 2015); Harvey (Southeast Texas, 2017); Andrew (South Florida, 1992); and Katrina (Florida, Mississippi, and New Orleans, Lousiana, 2005).

Volcanoes erupt globally every day, with immense destructive potential. Detailed footage and survival tales provide insight into their monstrous power, from Mount St. Helens in 1980 and Nevado del Ruiz in 1985 to the 2018 eruptions of Volcan de Fuego and K?lauea.

Two of the deadliest tsunamis ever recorded are the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami and the 2011 Tohoku Tsunami in Japan. Survivors recount traumatic experiences as scientists shed light on the causes and warning signs of tsunamis.

Wildfires are becoming megafires, devastating populated areas and causing tragic loss of life, as seen with the 2013 Yarnell Hill Fire near Yarnell, Arizona, the 2018 Camp Fire near Paradise, California, and the 2023 Maui Fire in Lahaina, Hawaii. Experts investigate the science and causes behind this phenomenon.

Tornadoes are among the most powerful and destructive natural hazards in the world, with the U.S. experiencing the most globally. Experts explain their formation, while residents of Joplin, Missouri (tornado in 2011) and Mayfield, Kentucky (tornado in 2021) share harrowing survival stories.