Catastrophe

This article is about the term. For the related occupation, see Catastrophe Messenger.

The tell-tale signs of an incoming Catastrophe: dark skies, turbulent weather, and a grim atmosphere.

“	The general name for a variety of frequent natural calamities, including but not limited to storms, blizzards, floods and even meteor showers.	”
	—Loading screen tip

Catastrophe is an umbrella term for cataclysmic natural disasters in the world of Arknights.

Description

The general name for a variety of frequent natural calamities, including but not limited to storms, blizzards, floods and even meteor showers. Catastrophes occur frequently, but also at unpredictable intervals. Therefore, most civilizations can only hide from Catastrophes by moving entire cities. A mineral called Originium can usually be found in the area after a Catastrophe is over. Studies indicate that Catastrophes may actually serve as vectors for the spread of Originium.

Overview

Natural disasters of many types, from earthquakes to meteor impacts, occur much more frequently on Terra than on Earth and are referred to as "Catastrophes," since such occurrences are cataclysmic in scale—often far worse than Earth's natural disasters. Despite the many forms Catastrophes can take, they all leave behind active Originium crystals, which are extremely dangerous and contaminate the affected area. Due to the threat of Catastrophes, most modern cities on Terra are nomadic cities, cities capable of moving its structures and inhabitants safely away from Catastrophes when necessary.

Recent technological advancement and the work of Catastrophe Messengers at least allow a more-or-less accurate prediction of when and where a Catastrophe will occur, giving nomadic settlements an opportunity to relocate before a Catastrophe strikes and lessening potential damage. Errors do occur from time to time, however, which can have devastating consequences, as seen with Chernobog in Episode 01 and Wolumonde during the events of Twilight of Wolumonde.

Nevertheless, even if the predictions are accurate, evacuating a nomadic city from an incoming Catastrophe is no easy feat. Most activities have to be put on hold, evacuation routes must be planned, and power must be redistributed to essential systems, such as those that ensure the safe separation and re-connection of city plates. If all preparations are complete but the Catastrophe does not arrive as forecasted, Catastrophe Messengers, far from being considered heroes, are blamed for the costly disruptions.

Although the Originium fragments left behind by Catastrophe can be collected and processed into useful materials, they are very dangerous and likely to infect anyone who has had unprotected contact with them.