1. A greater or superior force; an irresistible or overwhelming force of nature; FORCE MAJEURE . Cf. ACT OF GOD.
2. A loss that results immediately from a natural cause without human intervention and that could not have been prevented by the exercise of prudence, diligence, and care. — Also termed act of nature; act of providence; superior force; irresistible force; vis divina. [Cases: Carriers 119; Negligence 440; Shipping 120, 179. C.J.S. Aeronautics and Aerospace § 239; Carriers § 430; Negligence §§ 66–68, 209; Shipping §§ 276–277, 442.]
