Disaster documentaries are a fascinating way to explore some of the world’s most catastrophic events. From natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes, to man-made catastrophes such as Chernobyl and 9/11, these films provide an in-depth look into the causes and lasting effects of tragedy. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or education, you’ll find something that resonates with you when watching these 14 best disaster documentaries. So buckle up and get ready to be taken on an emotional journey through some of history’s darkest moments!
A Refuge of Last Resort (2006)
This gripping and acclaimed documentary follows the lives of those impacted by Hurricane Katrina, delving into their struggles and tragedies during the storm and its aftermath. Through intimate perspectives from affected families in New Orleans, this powerful film captures the heart-wrenching realities of a community torn apart by natural disaster.
Mega Disaster: It’s Happened Before, It Will Happen Again (2006)
Welcome to a journey through the dark side of Mother Nature. In this series, we will delve into the killer instincts of Earth’s most powerful forces and their potential to inflict unimaginable destruction upon our world. While past natural disasters serve as haunting reminders of what could happen, we will specifically focus on the United States and examine how it would fare against these titanic catastrophes.
SuperTornado: Anatomy of a Megadisaster (2009)
On a fateful day in May of 2011, a devastating tornado swept through the peaceful city of Joplin, Missouri. Within moments, homes were demolished and lives were lost. As scientists arrived to investigate this unprecedented disaster, the community was left reeling with shock and grief.
Natural Disasters Collection (2005)
Experience the power and fury of Mother Nature in a whole new light with National Geographic’s captivating collection of programs showcasing the aftermath of catastrophic natural disasters. From firsthand eyewitness testimonies to rare footage, this documentary will take you on a journey through some of the most devastating events in history, including hurricanes, tsunamis, tornadoes, earthquakes, and more.
Disasters of the Century (2005)
Embark on a journey through history as we delve into some of the most catastrophic disasters known to mankind. From tornadoes and earthquakes to collapsing mines and fiery explosions, these events have captured our attention for centuries. Join us as we dig deeper into the stories behind the headlines, uncovering new details about tragedies that have left a lasting impact on humanity.
Disasters at Sea (2019)
Join us as we delve into the depths of some of the most perplexing shipwrecks in recent history.
2016: The Disaster Diaries (2017)
Throughout 2016, our planet has faced a series of catastrophic events that have left lasting impacts on both the environment and human lives. From scorching droughts to raging wildfires, from devastating floods to powerful typhoons and hurricanes, the world has endured an onslaught of severe weather-related natural disasters.
Fire Mountain: The Eruption and Rebirth of Mount St. Helens (2010)
In one swift and catastrophic event, two hundred and thirty square miles of land were transformed into a desolate wasteland. The aftermath was captured through the lens of rare aerial photography, showcasing both the terrifying destruction and the enduring resilience of those who survived. This is the gripping story of Mount St. Helens – a tale of unparalleled disaster and miraculous rebirth.
The Best Free Documentaries About Disasters
1. The Deadliest Tsunamis
Tsunamis are some of nature’s most powerful forces, capable of devastating entire coastlines with their immense power. In this episode of Mega Disaster, we explore the history and science behind tsunamis to discover how they can cause such destruction. From tectonic plates shifting beneath the ocean floor to giant waves crashing onto shorelines, we take an in-depth look at these natural disasters and their tragic consequences. Join us as we travel around the world learning about some of the worst tsunamis ever recorded!
2. Shocking Natural Disasters Caught On Camera
Have you ever seen the power of nature? It can be both beautiful and devastating. In this documentary, we explore 10 shocking natural disasters that were captured on camera. From earthquakes to volcanic eruptions, watch as these incredible events unfold in real time! See for yourself how quickly things can change when Mother Nature is involved. We also take a look at how people respond to these disasters and the aftermath they leave behind. We’ll show you the heroic efforts of those who try to help during difficult times, as well as discuss what needs to be done in order for us all to stay safe in the future. So join us as we explore some of the most powerful moments caught on camera!
3. 2016 the Disaster Diaries
Are you looking for an amazing documentary series? Look no further! THE DISASTER DIARIES is the perfect show, taking viewers to some of the most natural disaster-prone locations around the world. Our crews are ready and prepared to capture these disasters in stunning Ultra-High Definition footage – giving viewers a truly immersive experience. Be sure not to miss this one!
4. The Most Destructive Geological Disasters
Natural disasters can cause widespread destruction in a very short amount of time. From volcanic eruptions to earthquakes, tornadoes and avalanches, these geological events have the power to wreak havoc on society. But floods are one of the most devastating natural disasters that people face today; from flash floods caused by torrential rain to raging currents sweeping away houses in their path. In this video we take a look at some of the worst floods our world has seen over the last century and explore how environmental disaster prevention is key for protecting communities against such catastrophes. Tune in as we investigate different ways to protect ourselves from nature’s fury!
5. Air Disaster Videos of All Time
What happens when the risk of air travel turns into a tragedy? This video looks at some of the most astonishing and memorable airplane disasters in history. From harrowing takeoffs to miraculous crash landings, these are stories that will stay with you forever. Watch as we look back on these incredible tales of aviation disaster and explore what went wrong.
6. The World’s Deadliest Natural Disasters
This documentary takes you on a journey to some of the world’s most devastating natural disasters. From earthquakes, floods and tsunamis to hurricanes and tornadoes, we explore the aftermath of these mega disasters in stunning 4K resolution. Follow us as we examine how people are affected by these tragedies and what measures can be taken to help them recover. Get an up-close look at the destruction caused by nature’s fury with Mega Disaster: Aftermath To The World’s Deadliest Natural Disasters [4K].
7. The Most Devastating Earthquakes
Earthquakes are a great source of awe and terror for us all. They strike with speed and force that can leave destruction in their wake. But what if we could predict when the next one would hit? In this documentary, experts share their mission to understand these powerful forces of nature by trying to anticipate when the next big quake will occur. Be prepared as you follow them on this journey into unknown territory!
8. Meteorologist Breaks Down Natural Disasters
Do you ever wonder if the natural disaster scenes in movies and television are actually accurate? In this video, renowned meteorologist David Yeomans examines some of the most iconic disasters in film history. From Mad Max: Fury Road to The Wolf Of Wall Street, find out which ones got it right and which ones made mistakes! Plus get an exclusive look at his analysis of The Crown, Only The Brave, Twister, War Of The Worlds, Dante’s Peak and Everest.
9. Causing a Natural Disaster to Party
In the small river town of Quincy, Illinois in 1993, a historic flood caused billions of dollars in damages and submerged the Midwestern United States. 24-year-old James Scott was convicted under an obscure 1979 Missouri law for intentionally breaching the West Quincy levee, allegedly with the motive to strand his wife on the other side of the river so he could be free to party and fish with friends. Though no lives were lost due to this breach, James is still serving a life sentence as he is Missouri’s first and only person convicted under this law. This documentary takes us into James’ story – how one seemingly innocent decision led him down an unexpected path that changed his life forever.
10. Most Horrific Natural Disasters Caught On Camera
Mother Nature can be an unpredictable and frightening force sometimes. In this video, we take a look at some of the most horrific natural disasters caught on camera in 2023 – when Mother Nature got angry. Floods are becoming increasingly common due to climate change, and extreme floods can be caused by intense precipitation or close repetition of rainfalls. We’ll see how these events shocked the world as they unfolded before our eyes and what kind of devastation was left behind. Watch now for an educational yet chilling insight into Mother Nature’s wrath!
11. History’s Worst Floods | Code Red | Earth Stories
As one of the most common, and potentially destructive natural disasters that can occur, floods have a significant impact on urbanized areas. Climate change is making floods more frequent, so it is important to understand how we can prepare for them – as well as learning from the catastrophic effects of those which have already happened.
12. The Devastating Floods Of Australia | Forecast for Disaster
Australia faced a two year cycle of devastating weather due to the Pacific Ocean phenomenon known as La Nina. Bush fires, unprecedented rainfall, cyclones and floods unfolded over an area spanning 14 years of drought. This documentary explores the science behind the natural disaster and its impact on human lives across the country.
