Asia faced a staggering total of 79 disasters associated with hydrometeorological hazards in 2023, as revealed by data from the Emergency Events Database (EM-DAT). The majority of these disasters, 52 in total, were attributed to flood and storm events, accounting for over 80% of the reported incidents. The toll of these calamities was devastating, resulting in more than 2,000 fatalities.
Among the fatalities, over 60% were linked to flooding, while over 15% were attributed to storms, underscoring the lethal impact of these natural disasters. The ramifications extended beyond loss of life, directly affecting over nine million individuals throughout the region.
Of particular concern were the vulnerability hotspots identified within certain countries. India, Yemen, and Pakistan stood out, with floods emerging as the primary natural hazard responsible for the highest number of fatalities. This stark reality underscores the ongoing vulnerability of Asia to such disasters, particularly floods.
These distressing statistics underscore the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and mitigation measures across the region. The severity of the situation calls for immediate action to minimize both the loss of life and the socioeconomic impact associated with hydrometeorological hazards.
In response to these escalating threats, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and its partners advocate for a comprehensive early warning and disaster risk reduction system. This approach aims to mitigate the impacts of climate change and bolster resilience in the face of evolving climatic challenges.
Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), reaffirmed the commitment to enhancing climate ambition and implementing sound policies to address the evolving climate crisis in the region.
