This set is organized into 23 chapters arranged alphabetically by disaster type, such as Avalanches, Blizzards, Droughts, Dust and Sand Storms, Earthquakes, Explosions, Famines, Fires, Floods, Hurricanes, Landslides, Meteorites and Comets, Tornadoes, Tsunamis, Volcanic Eruptions, and Wind Gusts. Each disaster is described in scientific terms. Specific events follow in chronological order in narrative-style essays of facts, figures, and interesting stories. Events were chosen based on loss of life, widespread destruction, and notable circumstances. They range in time from 65,000,000 B.C.E. to the year 2000 and cover six continents.

General Bibliography. Time Line. Organizations and Agencies. Geographical List. Glossary. Subject Index. 749 essays. 300 maps, charts, and photos.