Which of the following is a natural threat to water system safety?

Natural threats to water system safety primarily involve environmental events that can directly impact water quality, availability, and safety. Flooding and earthquakes are quintessential examples of such natural threats. Flooding can lead to significant contamination of water sources, as heavy rains might wash pollutants into rivers and reservoirs, while earthquakes can damage infrastructure, disrupt water supply and treatment processes, and create hazards such as landslides that can further compromise water systems.

The focus on flooding and earthquakes as threats underscores the need for water systems to have contingency plans and robust infrastructure to withstand such natural disasters, ensuring continued safe water service to the community. Understanding these threats is crucial for developing effective risk management strategies in the operation of water systems.