Importance of geography in development

I have always wondered where governance and self will comes in to play in development in this country. I am refering to the developments along known areas of natural disasters.

Why are developments or building permits allowed in known areas of disasters. Houses are built in river basins that are KNOWN to be flood prone. Sky scrappers are approved and built in known tornado areas.

I have seen schools built in what is virtually a flood plain and boats are needed to evaquate kids with the slightest of rains. Anybody do flood plain study and implementation in planning?

If we are smart enough not to fly the schuttle when mother nature threatens, why do we put innocent lives in jeopardy? Was just wondering.