Top 7 Countries Most Vulnerable to Natural Disasters According to World Risk Report 2024

The World Risk Report 2024 identifies the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Colombia, Mexico, Myanmar, and Mozambique as the countries most at risk from natural disasters. Each nation faces specific hazards exacerbated by geographic and socio-economic factors, including typhoons, earthquakes, and diverse climate challenges. The report underscores the urgent need for better preparedness and resilience strategies to protect vulnerable populations.

As climate change exacerbates environmental crises, the occurrence of natural disasters has risen significantly. The World Risk Report 2024 has identified ten countries facing the highest risk of natural disasters, assessed based on their exposure, vulnerability, and susceptibility to extreme events such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, and droughts.

1. Philippines: With a World Risk Index (WRI) score of 46.91, the Philippines is highly exposed to natural hazards, including typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. Its archipelagic geography and socio-economic vulnerabilities contribute to its elevated disaster risk.

2. Indonesia: Scoring 41.13 on the WRI, Indonesia’s location along the Pacific Ring of Fire renders it particularly prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic events. The concentration of population in hazard-prone areas exacerbates its vulnerability.

3. India: India receives a WRI score of 40.96, reflecting its susceptibility to a variety of natural hazards, such as floods, cyclones, and earthquakes. The rapid pace of urbanization and socio-economic disparity further increase the risks faced by its populace.

4. Colombia: With a WRI score of 37.81, Colombia is at risk from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods. Its diverse topography, coupled with socio-political dynamics, plays a significant role in its vulnerability to natural disasters.

5. Mexico: Mexico’s WRI score of 35.93 indicates its exposure to earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanic activities. The challenge lies in urbanization in high-risk areas and the socio-economic issues that compound its disaster risks.

6. Myanmar: Scoring 35.85 on the WRI, Myanmar faces challenges from cyclones, floods, and earthquakes. Insufficient infrastructure, alongside socio-economic difficulties, elevates the country’s susceptibility to disasters.

7. Mozambique: With a WRI score of 34.44, Mozambique is vulnerable to cyclones, floods, and droughts. The interplay of socio-economic conditions and inadequate infrastructure amplifies its disaster risk.

The World Risk Report 2024 highlights the pressing need for enhanced disaster preparedness in the top countries at risk. With climate change driving an increase in extreme weather events, it is essential for these nations to address their vulnerabilities through improved infrastructure, urban planning, and socio-economic reforms. By doing so, they can mitigate the impacts of these inevitable natural disasters.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com