The longitudinal framework facilitates the analysis of disasters by providing a series of phases based on properties rather than on absolute times. This framework allows the comparison of similar phases of a disaster regardless of the hazard involved and the society impacted. The phases, which may overlap include the: (1) pre-event state; (2) event; (3) damage; (4) changes in societal functions; (5) relief interventions; and (6) recovery interventions. Development is not a phase of a disaster and is addressed separately. For research and evaluation purposes, assessments, plans, and interventions must be described in relation to only one of the longitudinal phases of a disaster.
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