I've been through quite a number of natural disasters in my life. Flash floods, tornados, and more hurricanes than I can count. I think you can depend on a range of emotions if you're the victim of such events.
First, disbelief. Mother nature is all powerful and just awesome. Go outside after the storm and you'll see some shocking things sometimes. Things you just can't believe can happen. Second, hopelessness. You wonder what will happen now that you've lost everything. It's very depressing. Hard to understand why you're a victim and this leads to anger at times. Lastly, there's the "carry on" when you just go forward because what choice is there?
I say this as a lens into the on the ground reporting that's done. Sure, when they put a microphone in front of a victim you should take it with a grain of salt, but really theses emotions are underlying.
Also have worked a number of recoveries. That is long and tiring work, but actually you get payback constantly by knowing you're helping people.