By Abdullahi Lukman
Over 1.8 billion people around the world are at high risk of flooding due to climate change and human activity, according to the World Risk Report released on Wednesday.
In 2024 alone, flooding triggered 142 disasters globally, making it the second most frequent cause of disasters after storms. One of the most devastating incidents occurred in Spain’s Valencia region in October 2024, where over 220 people died due to heavy rainfall and severe flooding.
The report, compiled by the Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict (IFHV) at Ruhr University Bochum in Germany, along with the Alliance Development Works—a coalition of 11 development aid organizations—highlights that the impact of natural disasters is worsened by urban growth, environmental degradation, and climate change.
Social inequality, weak healthcare systems, and structural vulnerabilities were also identified as major global risk factors, even in wealthy nations where public spending cuts affect critical infrastructure.
The authors emphasized that preparedness is key to reducing the impact of disasters. Early warning systems, community shelters, training, and water management infrastructure can significantly reduce the damage and save lives.