disaster; calamity; catastrophe
A somewhat formal or literary term for a large-scale disaster or calamity, often implying widespread suffering or misfortune.
The war brought calamity to many people.
Natural disasters sometimes become great catastrophes.
Compound of 災 (sai, 'disaster') and 禍 (ka, 'calamity, misfortune'). Both kanji carry similar meanings, reinforcing the idea of a severe disaster or affliction.