Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of natural hazard areas?

The choice indicating that natural hazard areas are exclusively urban is not a characteristic of such areas, making it the correct answer in this context. Natural hazard areas can exist in both urban and rural regions, reflecting a wide variety of environments that may be susceptible to hazards like floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and hurricanes.

Characteristics of natural hazard areas typically include their potential impact on property values, as properties in these zones may decrease in value due to perceived risk. They are also legally defined zones, as governments often designate specific areas based on known risks and may impose regulations accordingly. Additionally, properties located in these areas often require additional insurance due to the heightened risk in case of a disaster. Therefore, the option that suggests these hazard areas are exclusively urban is misleading and does not accurately reflect the nature of natural hazard areas, which can be found in any type of geographic setting.