ABSTRACT
In the past few decades, data about earth sciences-including geography, geology,
hydrology, climatology, and meteorology-and associated natural disasters have
increasingly been visualized on the Internet, making data available to the public in
the form of interactive maps, charts, lists, and animations. In most cases, users can
organize and articulate the data according to their needs and interests, enabling
them both to see the big picture-across their state, nation, or planet-and to
localize the visualization in their own neighborhoods. In doing so, the public can
visualize natural phenomena that continue to shape the planet-and the ways that
we inhabit it-by posing risks that range from minor nuisances (sleet that
lengthens a morning commute) to devastating hurricanes, tornados,
and earthquakes that may seriously jeopardize life and property.
