Final answer:
Living near the Ring of Fire exposes residents to dangers such as destructive earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and devastating tsunamis, which are all the result of the tectonic activities that characterize this geologically active zone.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hazards of living near the Ring of Fire include exposure to frequent natural disasters such as volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis. This area is notorious for the dynamic movement of tectonic plates that can cause devastating earthquakes. These earthquakes, particularly those occurring underwater, can trigger powerful tsunamis that lead to widespread coastal destruction. Additionally, the continuous tectonic activity can result in volcanic eruptions, which pose risks such as lava flows, ash clouds, and the release of toxic gases that can be hazardous to health and the environment.
For example, the 2011 earthquake off the east coast of Japan triggered a tsunami that caused massive damage and impacted nuclear facilities, leading to radiation exposure. The San Andreas Fault in California and Mount St. Helens in Washington are just two of the areas within the Ring of Fire that demonstrate the potential for serious natural disasters.