Standardization of natural disaster classification in China

The standard of "classification and codes for natural disasters" was issued as Chinese national standard for the first time on October 12, 2012, which indicated the arrival of a standardization age of natural disaster classification. In order to make more researchers and managers understand the standard, and also promote better implementation and application of this standard, a comprehensive interpretation of the standard was given based on the review of establishment background. The main content of this standard was introduced, and a comparative analysis between this new standard and the existing classification for natural disasters was done. The work will be of benefit to researchers and managers using this standard.