The World Risk Report 2024 identifies the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Colombia, Mexico, Myanmar, and Mozambique as the top seven countries most at risk of natural disasters. Their vulnerabilities are compounded by geographical conditions and socio-economic challenges, necessitating urgent strategies for disaster preparedness and resilience.
As climate change continues to escalate, the frequency and intensity of natural disasters are increasing globally. The World Risk Report 2024 highlights the countries most susceptible to such calamities by analyzing their exposure, vulnerability, and susceptibility to extreme events including earthquakes and floods. Herein are the top seven countries identified as having the highest risk of natural disasters:
1. Philippines: The Philippines, with a World Risk Index (WRI) score of 46.91, experiences significant threats from typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions due to its geographical nature and socio-economic challenges.
2. Indonesia: Indonesia’s score of 41.13 reflects its perilous position along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic activity, exacerbated by its high population density in hazard-prone areas.
3. India: With a WRI of 40.96, India faces various natural hazards, including floods, cyclones, and earthquakes, intensified by rapid urbanization and socio-economic inequalities.
4. Colombia: Colombia, scoring 37.81, suffers from earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods, with its diverse topography and socio-political factors influencing its heightened vulnerability.
5. Mexico: Mexico’s WRI score of 35.93 indicates significant exposure to earthquakes, hurricanes, and volcanic activity, with urbanization in high-risk areas and socio-economic issues increasing its disaster risk.
6. Myanmar: Scoring 35.85 on the WRI, Myanmar is at risk from cyclones, floods, and earthquakes, with inadequate infrastructure and socio-economic challenges aggravating its vulnerability.
7. Mozambique: Mozambique records a WRI of 34.44 and is susceptible to cyclones, floods, and droughts, influenced by socio-economic factors and a lack of adequate infrastructure.
In conclusion, the World Risk Report 2024 underscores the increasing vulnerability of several countries to natural disasters due to their geographic and socio-economic conditions. The Philippines, Indonesia, India, Colombia, Mexico, Myanmar, and Mozambique stand out as the most at risk, highlighting the urgent need for disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies. A collective effort is necessary to address these vulnerabilities and enhance resilience against natural calamities.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
