Critical Situation

Watch Critical Situation

  • 2007
  • 1 Season

Critical Situation is a documentary series from National Geographic that explores some of the most intense and life-threatening situations that occur around the world. Each episode takes viewers behind the scenes of real emergencies, from natural disasters to man-made catastrophes, highlighting the bravery of first responders and the resilience of those affected. The show features dramatic reenactments, interviews with survivors and witnesses, and archival footage to provide a comprehensive look at each situation.

The series covers a wide range of emergencies, including extreme weather events, industrial accidents, and terrorist attacks. One episode focuses on the 2011 tornado outbreak that devastated the American Midwest, while another looks at the catastrophic oil rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010. Other episodes examine the aftermath of bombings in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the refugee crisis sparked by the Syrian civil war.

The show also covers smaller-scale emergencies, such as a car accident on a remote road in Alaska or a hiker stranded on a mountainside in Switzerland. In each case, the focus is on the people involved and the challenges they face in getting help and finding safety.

What sets Critical Situation apart is its emphasis on the human element of emergency situations. The show is not just about the disasters themselves, but the people who are affected by them. Viewers meet survivors who have lost everything, first responders who risk their lives to save others, and experts who work tirelessly to prevent future disasters. Through their stories, viewers gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and unpredictability of emergency situations and the importance of preparedness and resilience.

The show also highlights the important role that technology and innovation play in emergency response. In several episodes, we see how new tools and techniques are being developed to help first responders and emergency managers better understand and respond to disasters. For example, one episode features a new wildfire simulation tool that allows firefighters to predict how a fire will behave, while another highlights a new earthquake early warning system that can give people crucial seconds to take cover before the quake hits.

Despite its serious subject matter, Critical Situation is not without moments of hope and inspiration. In many cases, viewers see how communities come together in times of crisis, with neighbors helping neighbors and strangers stepping up to offer their support. We also see how individuals can overcome incredible odds and survive against all odds. These moments of resilience and determination are a testament to the human spirit and serve as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better future.

In summary, Critical Situation is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary series that offers a unique perspective on emergency situations. Through powerful storytelling and insightful analysis, the show provides viewers with a deeper understanding of the challenges facing those caught up in disasters and the important work being done to prevent and respond to such events. Whether you are interested in emergency management, technology, or simply enjoy a gripping true story, this series is well worth your time.

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Seasons
	Entebbe Hostage Rescue
12. Entebbe Hostage Rescue
March 25, 2008
An examination of the 1976 rescue by Isreali Defense Forces of the passengers of a hijacked Air France flight in Uganda.
Coal Mine Disaster
11. Coal Mine Disaster
February 12, 2008
A look at the Quecreek mine rescue in Somerset County, Pa back in July 2002, where nine miners were trapped for 70 hours underground when millions of gallons of water from an abandoned mine caused a flood.
Al Qaeda Ambush
10. Al Qaeda Ambush
November 20, 2007
Detailing the March 2002 battle of Takur Ghar in southeastern Afghanistan, when a group of Navy SEALs came under attack by Al Qaeda fighters while trying to secure a mountain-top observation point. Seven soldiers lost their lives in what is considered one of the bloodiest battles for U.S. forces in the Afghan war.
Nightmare on Mt. Hood
9. Nightmare on Mt. Hood
November 19, 2007
A May 30, 2002, mountain-climbing disaster on Oregon's Mt. Hood and the subsequent crash of a military rescue helicopter are recalled.
Moscow Siege
8. Moscow Siege
September 25, 2007
Recalling the October 2002 hostage crisis in Moscow's Dubrovka Theater, in which a group of Chechen rebels demanded independence from Russia and held more than 900 people for almost three days.
Killing Pablo
7. Killing Pablo
August 28, 2007
Recalling the massive manhunt for Colombian drug baron Pablo Escobar, the notorious head of the Medellín Cartel, who was killed in 1993.
Taliban Uprising
6. Taliban Uprising
July 24, 2007
A look at the Nov. 25-Dec. 1, 2001 uprising of Taliban prisoners in the Afghanistan compound of Qala-i-Jangi, which left a majority of the prisoners dead. Included: California-native-turned-Taliban-fighter John Walker Lindh.
Operation Certain Death
5. Operation Certain Death
July 17, 2007
A look at a hostage crisis in which 11 members of the Royal Irish Regiment were abducted on Aug. 25, 2000, in Sierra Leone by a band of rebels called the "West Side Boys," and the subsequent rescue mission by the British military.
Hell on High Water
4. Hell on High Water
July 3, 2007
An account of 1998's Sydney to Hobart yacht race, which became one of the worst sporting tragedies in history when a violent storm left six sailors dead and many more injured. Included: helicopter-rescue footage.
Apollo 13
3. Apollo 13
June 26, 2007
Apollo 13 crew members James Lovell and Fred Haise discuss their ill-fated trip to space and the emergency return to Earth after an on board explosion disabled the ship two days after its April 11, 1970, launch.
Downed Pilot
2. Downed Pilot
June 19, 2007
Former U.S. Air Force pilot Scott O'Grady recalls his six-day struggle to survive in Bosnia after his F-16 was shot down on June 2, 1995, by a Serb missile while he was patrolling a NATO imposed no-fly zone.
North Hollywood Shoot-out
1. North Hollywood Shoot-out
June 12, 2007
Recalling a Feb. 28, 1997, L.A. bank robbery and the subsequent shoot-out between police and two notorious criminals dubbed the "High Incident Bandits." It was "one of the most violent gun battles in modern police history," says narrator Rufus Jones. Both gunmen were killed and 15 people were injured, including 10 police officers.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    June 12, 2007
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