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Category: Global
Tibet Earthquake
January 7: A magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck near Shigatse city in Tibet, resulting in at least 95 deaths and 130 injuries. The quake caused extensive damage to over 1,000 houses and affected approximately 62,000 residents. Tremors were felt as far as Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, and the Indian state of Bihar.
On January 7, 2025, at 09:05 CST (UTC+8), a devastating earthquake measuring Mw 7.1 struck Tingri County in the Shigatse prefecture of Tibet Autonomous Region, China. The earthquake, which originated at a depth of 10 km (6.2 mi), was caused by normal faulting and became the most powerful seismic event in China since the Maduo earthquake in May 2021 and the deadliest since the Jishishan earthquake in December 2023. The tremors were felt across South Asia, impacting Nepal and northern India.
Tectonic Context
The Tibetan Plateau, formed due to the ongoing collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, is highly seismically active. The region’s faulting mechanism includes both strike-slip and normal faulting. The earthquake’s rupture occurred on a north-south trending fault, identified as the Deng Me Cuo Fault, with a rupture length extending between Ngamring and southern Tingri County.
Casualties and Impact
The official Chinese government report cited 126 fatalities, but alternative estimates ranged from 134 to over 400. The discrepancy has fueled criticism and concerns regarding information transparency. At least 338 people sustained injuries, with 19 in critical condition. Nepal also reported 13 injuries, and minor damage occurred in northern India.
The earthquake led to the collapse of 3,612 homes and damaged over 27,200 buildings. In several villages, up to 90% of homes were razed, and infrastructure—including roads and hydropower dams—suffered significant damage. More than 40 monasteries were impacted, with eight severely affected. Telecommunications were briefly disrupted, and landslides damaged key transportation routes.
In Nepal, homes and a police station sustained damage, while avalanches near Mount Everest were reported. In Bhutan, tremors triggered two avalanches near the Bechung glacier.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
China mobilized over 14,000 rescue personnel, 340 medical workers, and extensive resources to aid the affected population. The Chinese government allocated 100 million yuan ($13.6 million) for disaster relief, deploying military personnel, drones, and satellites for damage assessment and response coordination. Emergency shelters were established, and relief supplies—including tents, warm clothing, and food—were distributed to displaced residents.
The Chinese Communist Party’s General Secretary, Xi Jinping, emphasized the urgency of rescue efforts, infrastructure restoration, and relocation assistance. Temperatures plummeting to −16°C (3°F) exacerbated the crisis, increasing the risk of hypothermia among survivors trapped under rubble.
By January 31, over 7,700 temporary shelters and nearly 10,000 tents had been set up, accommodating 47,787 displaced residents. Search and rescue operations concluded after two weeks, with authorities acknowledging the slim survival chances for missing persons due to extreme conditions.
International Response
The earthquake prompted global reactions, with leaders from more than 22 countries, the United Nations, and international organizations extending their condolences. The U.S., Denmark, and South Korea expressed sympathies via official embassy statements, while Taiwan’s Straits Exchange Foundation and Mainland Affairs Council conveyed formal messages of support. The 11th Panchen Lama initiated a donation drive that raised nearly 1.5 million yuan ($208,660) to support relief efforts.
Despite widespread solidarity, the Chinese government took action against misinformation, including administrative penalties for individuals spreading unverified fatality estimates and AI-generated images online.
Conclusion
The January 7 earthquake in Tibet stands as a tragic reminder of the seismic vulnerabilities in the region. The scale of destruction underscores the urgent need for improved earthquake-resistant infrastructure and enhanced disaster preparedness measures. While China’s rapid response mitigated further casualties, ongoing rehabilitation efforts remain critical for the thousands affected by this catastrophic event.
Source:
www.aljazeera.com
Los Angeles Wildfires
January 2025: Uncontrolled wildfires ravaged parts of Los Angeles, destroying hundreds of buildings, causing at least ten fatalities, and forcing around 180,000 residents to evacuate. The fires were fueled by strong winds and prolonged drought conditions.
Los Angeles and San Diego County, California
A series of 14 catastrophic wildfires engulfed the Los Angeles metropolitan area and San Diego County from January 7 to 31, 2025, fueled by drought conditions, low humidity, and powerful Santa Ana winds. With wind gusts reaching up to 100 miles per hour (160 km/h), the fires led to widespread destruction, claiming at least 29 lives, displacing over 200,000 residents, and consuming more than 18,000 homes and structures. In total, the wildfires burned approximately 57,000 acres (23,000 ha; 89 sq mi) of land.
Major Fires and Emergency Response
Among the most devastating fires were the Eaton Fire in Altadena and the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades. These two blazes, fully contained by January 31, ranked as the second and third-most destructive fires in California’s history. Firefighting efforts were led by municipal fire departments and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), with both ground teams and tactical aircraft deployed to combat the flames.
Forecasted Disaster and Climatic
Conditions
The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) had warned of “above normal significant fire potential” as early as January 2. By January 7, the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) had issued an extreme fire weather warning for Southern California, marking multiple days of critical fire risk. As the fires spread, the National Weather Service (NWS) declared a red flag warning for Los Angeles and Ventura counties, citing dangerously dry conditions exacerbated by a transition from El Niño to La Niña, which left the region in a moderate drought by late December 2024.
Climate Change and Fire
Intensification
Scientific analyses from the Institut Pierre Simon Laplace and Climate Central indicated that anthropogenic climate change had intensified the fire conditions, contributing to increased temperatures, erratic rainfall, and prolonged dry seasons. Researchers found that rising urban temperatures and decreased precipitation heightened wildfire risks, while shifts in seasonal weather patterns extended the fire season further into the months dominated by Santa Ana winds.
Unprecedented Wind Conditions
The Santa Ana winds that fueled the fires reached exceptional speeds, with gusts recorded at 100 mph (160 km/h) on Mount Lukens and 98 mph (158 km/h) in the Santa Monica Mountains. The NWS described the windstorm as potentially “life-threatening,” with widespread power outages and downed trees reported across the region. By January 7, reports from Magic Mountain Truck Trail in Santa Clarita confirmed wind speeds of 84 mph (135 km/h), leading the NWS to compare the event to the region’s most destructive windstorm since 2011.
Compounding Human Factors
Budgetary Constraints on Firefighting Efforts
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) faced operational challenges due to a $17.6 million budget reduction for the 2024–2025 fiscal year. Fire Chief Kristin Crowley noted that these cuts severely impacted emergency response preparedness and brush clearance inspections. Additionally, rising costs and delays in acquiring new fire trucks hindered fire departments across the United States.
Aging Infrastructure and Construction Codes
Older neighbourhoods, particularly in the Palisades, suffered extensive damage due to outdated building codes. Many homes, built in the 1950s and 1960s, lacked modern fire-resistant materials, making them more susceptible to ignition.
Electric Grid Vulnerabilities
Los Angeles’ power grid was ill-equipped to handle the extreme wind conditions, with infrastructure designed to withstand only up to 56 mph (90 km/h) winds. Experts criticized the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) for not implementing proactive power shut-offs to prevent electrical fires.
Homelessness and Fire Incidents
A growing number of fires in Los Angeles were linked to homelessness. By 2024, an average of 46 homeless-related fires occurred daily, worsening an already precarious fire safety situation.
Water Supply Shortages
Firefighters faced critical water shortages as storage tanks in high-elevation neighborhoods were depleted faster than they could be refilled. The Santa Ynez Reservoir, a crucial water source for Pacific Palisades, had been emptied for maintenance, significantly reducing available water pressure during the emergency.
Preparation and Government Response
Governor Gavin Newsom mobilized 65 fire engines, seven helicopters, and over 100 personnel in response to the growing crisis. The Mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, issued warnings to residents and coordinated emergency operations. However, as she was attending the inauguration of Ghanaian President John Mahama, acting mayor Marqueece Harris-Dawson oversaw local efforts. Utility providers, including Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric, preemptively cut power in high-risk areas to mitigate potential ignitions.
Lead-up and Early Impact
On January 7, Los Angeles declared a state of emergency. The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) issued dust storm warnings, while power outages left over 20,000 customers in the dark. The National Weather Service called the event the strongest windstorm of 2025, while the Federal Aviation Administration issued temporary flight restrictions due to hazardous conditions.
Conclusion
The January 2025 wildfires stand as one of the most severe climate disasters in recent California history. The combination of extreme wind, prolonged drought, and inadequate infrastructure response underscores the urgent need for climate-adaptive policies, improved fire management funding, and enhanced urban planning to mitigate future wildfire disasters.
Source:
www.wri.org
Melbourne Flash Floods
January 12, 2025 Severe storms caused flash flooding in Melbourne, Australia, leading to widespread damage, including downed trees and power outages affecting tens of thousands of homes.
Severe Thunderstorms Cause Flash Flooding and Disruptions Across Victoria
Melbourne, Australia – Widespread thunderstorms battered Melbourne on Sunday morning, causing flash flooding, power outages, and disruptions, including the suspension of play at the Australian Open. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issued severe thunderstorm warnings for eastern parts of the state, cautioning residents about potential heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and large hailstones.
Flash Flooding and Storm Impact
Heavy rainfall led to flash flooding in parts of Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD), with significant water accumulation at key intersections such as Russell and Lonsdale streets. The BOM recorded 24.6mm of rain at Melbourne Park within just 30 minutes, bringing the Australian Open to a standstill as spectators scrambled for cover under ponchos and umbrellas.
In the eastern part of the state, Stradbroke West recorded 29mm of rain by 3 p.m., while East Sale experienced wind gusts of up to 91kph. By 4 p.m., more than 8,000 customers across Victoria were affected by power outages, exacerbating the storm’s impact on residents and businesses.
Emergency Response and Public Safety Measures
The State Emergency Service (SES) responded to 161 requests for assistance since midnight, with its busiest units in Footscray, Malvern, and Moorabbin. Emergency responders advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to steer clear of hazards such as floodwaters, damaged roads, and fallen trees.
Despite an earlier severe thunderstorm warning for Melbourne, the BOM later cancelled the alert, stating that “the immediate threat of severe thunderstorms has passed, but the situation will continue to be monitored.”
Australian Open Disruptions
The adverse weather conditions severely impacted the first day of the Australian Open. Matches on outdoor courts at Melbourne Park were suspended, with no play expected before 5:30 p.m. (AEDT). However, matches continued under the closed roofs of Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, and John Cain Arena, allowing the tournament to proceed despite the downpour.
Ongoing Weather Threats
While Melbourne’s immediate severe thunderstorm warning was lifted, BOM maintained warnings for the West and South Gippsland districts, as well as parts of the Central, East Gippsland, North East, and North Central districts. The affected areas, including Wangaratta, Bright, Morwell, Traralgon, Sale, and Maffra, remain at risk of severe storms.
With unpredictable weather patterns and the potential for further disruptions, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Residents and visitors are urged to stay updated through official BOM alerts and follow safety advisories to mitigate risks posed by extreme weather events.
Conclusion
Severe thunderstorms across Victoria have highlighted the vulnerability of urban infrastructure to extreme weather. The swift response from emergency services and public safety measures underscores the importance of preparedness in mitigating the impacts of climate-driven disasters. As the storm threat persists in parts of the state, vigilance and precaution remain paramount to ensuring public safety and minimizing disruptions.
Source:
www.abc.net.au
Brazil Coastal Flooding
January 15, 2025: Heavy rains caused flooding in coastal cities of southern Brazil, including Balneário Camboriú and Itapema. The floods led to the displacement of entire communities and significant damage to infrastructure.
January 2025 – Vale do Aço, Brazil — The metropolitan region of Vale do Aço, located in the interior of Minas Gerais, Brazil, faced a catastrophic natural disaster between January 12 and 13, 2025, as extreme precipitation led to severe floods and landslides. The heavy rains resulted in significant devastation across the four municipalities in the region—Coronel Fabriciano, Ipatinga, Santana do Paraíso, and Timóteo—with Ipatinga experiencing the most substantial impact.
Unprecedented Rainfall and Landslides
The torrential rains, attributed to the South Atlantic Convergence Zone (ZCAS), triggered widespread flooding and landslides across the region. Ipatinga, the hardest-hit city, recorded ten fatalities caused by landslides, including two children. Coronel Fabriciano and Santana do Paraíso each reported one fatality. In total, more than 180 people were left homeless, with thousands affected by the disaster.
Rain gauges installed by the National Center for Monitoring and Early Warning of Natural Disasters (CEMADEN) reported extreme rainfall levels. In Ipatinga’s Betânia neighborhood, over 200 millimeters (7.9 inches) of rain fell within six hours, nearly equaling the city’s monthly average rainfall for January. Similar levels of rainfall were recorded in neighbouring municipalities, exacerbating the crisis.
Widespread Destruction and Infrastructure
Collapse
The floods caused landslides that buried homes, particularly in the neighbourhoods of Betânia, Canaã, and Vila Celeste in Ipatinga. One particularly tragic incident saw five members of a single family killed when a slope collapsed onto their home in Betânia. In Santana do Paraíso, landslides obstructed roads, cutting off access to Mesquita and Bom Jesus do Bagre.
Infrastructure damage was extensive. In Ipatinga, the Unidade de Pronto Atendimento (UPA) in the Canaã neighborhood was inundated, forcing patient evacuations to neighboring healthcare facilities. Commercial districts suffered immense losses, with Avenida José Selim de Sales, a primary business hub, heavily impacted. Even after floodwaters receded, mud and debris coated streets, homes, and businesses, hampering recovery efforts.
Public transportation and major roadways also suffered disruptions. The urban section of BR-381 was completely submerged near Shopping Vale do Aço, halting traffic. Similarly, Avenida Maanaim sustained severe structural damage due to the overflowing Taúbas stream. In Coronel Fabriciano, a slope threatened to collapse, leading to the closure of Avenida Rubem Siqueira Maia, a key roadway.
Emergency Response and Displacement
The Civil Defense issued emergency alerts to residents via mobile notifications and sirens, warning of further landslides and flooding. Despite these measures, the rapid onset of the disaster left many vulnerable. By January 15, the death toll from the broader rainy season across Minas Gerais had climbed to 26, with approximately 130 individuals left homeless in Ipatinga alone and 400 displaced. The floods affected over 85,000 people in the region by January 14.
Timóteo faced its own challenges, as a landslide isolated part of the city and flooded the Fórum Geraldo Perlingeiro de Abreu courthouse. Around 260 families in the municipality were affected, many requiring urgent assistance.
Historical Context and Urban Vulnerability
The Região Metropolitana do Vale do Aço is characterized by rugged terrain and high population density in informal urban settlements. Decades of unplanned urban expansion have forced residents to build homes near watercourses and on unstable slopes, significantly increasing their vulnerability to natural disasters. This lack of adequate land-use planning has made flooding and landslides recurrent threats.
Less than a month before the January 2025 floods, Coronel Fabriciano had already suffered a devastating storm in December 2024, which left more than 1,000 people homeless or displaced. The compounding effects of these extreme weather events underscore the urgent need for improved disaster risk management and infrastructure resilience in the region.
Looking Ahead: Recovery and Mitigation Efforts
As recovery efforts continue, local authorities and humanitarian organizations are working to provide aid to affected residents. The floods have reignited discussions on the necessity of sustainable urban planning and enhanced early-warning systems to mitigate future disasters.
The Vale do Aço floods of January 2025 serve as a stark reminder of the escalating risks posed by extreme weather events in vulnerable urban areas. With climate change expected to increase the frequency and intensity of such phenomena, a concerted effort toward disaster preparedness and resilient urban development is more critical than ever.
Source:
www.relifweb.int
Santorini Earthquake Swarm
Late January to February 2025: Over 12,000 earthquakes, mostly of small magnitude, were detected near Greece’s volcanic island of Santorini. The seismic activity prompted authorities to declare a state of emergency, leading to evacuations and heightened monitoring due to concerns about a potential larger earthquake.
The ongoing swarm of earthquakes near Santorini continues to perplex scientists while keeping disaster risk management teams and the public on high alert. Reports of the escalating seismic activity have garnered global attention. Santorini, a vast volcanic caldera with two small islets at its submerged center, has a turbulent volcanic history spanning 650,000 years. The island has experienced catastrophic eruptions, including a devastating blast around 1560 B.C. that contributed to the collapse of a civilization, a significant eruption in A.D. 726, and a moderate one in 1950. Given its active volcanic status, the region remains under close scrutiny.
Since January 31, 2025, seismic activity has surged across a 250 km² area northeast of Santorini, near the fault believed responsible for the July 9, 1956, Amorgos earthquake and tsunami. This has raised concerns among experts, who are closely monitoring the evolving situation. According to a report dated February 9, prepared by Prof. Ahmet Yalciner and a team of experts in collaboration with the National Observatory of Athens (NOA), over 1,200 earthquakes have been recorded between January 25 and February 7, with magnitudes ranging from 1.0 to 5.2. Among these, 129 earthquakes exceeded magnitude 4.0, with the strongest recorded at ML 5.2. Most quakes occurred at depths between 10 and 15 km, forming a NE-SW trending cluster east of Anydros Island.
The seismic activity is cantered within the Anydros Uplift (Anydros Horst), positioned between the NW-dipping Anydros Fault and the SE-dipping Santorini-Anafi Fault. Initial data analysis indicates an increase in earthquake magnitudes during the early phase of the swarm.
Tsunami modelling studies have been undertaken to assess potential risks associated with tectonic and volcanic activity in the region. The simulations examine possible tsunami scenarios affecting the islands of Santorini, Amorgos, Astypalaea, and Anafi, with a particular focus on the Aegean coast of Türkiye.
Growing Public Concerns and Evacuations
Denis Chang Seng, UNESCO-IOC Programme Specialist and Technical Secretary of ICG-NEAMTWS, emphasized that beyond scientific debate over the causes, a crucial issue demanding attention from disaster risk management and response teams is the self-initiated evacuation of Santorini residents. Human risk perception plays a pivotal role in such scenarios, influenced by proximity to the perceived hazard, past disaster experiences, and public trust in authorities. Although individual factors such as media coverage, age, gender, education, and income levels may not be primary drivers of risk perception, they can amplify core factors influencing public response.
According to BBC News, by February 6, over 11,000 people had fled Santorini—7,000 via ferry and 4,000 by air—due to the escalating situation. In response, Greece declared a state of emergency for Santorini on February 5, following a 5.2-magnitude earthquake at 21:09 local time (19:09 GMT) between Amorgos and Santorini. The emergency decree, effective until March 3, aims to address urgent needs and manage the situation. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis reassured the public, stating, “All plans have been implemented. Forces have been moved to Santorini and the other islands so that we are ready for any eventuality.” Despite heightened seismic activity, no significant damage has been reported on the island thus far.
The Role of the
UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System
Amid the unfolding seismic activity, the importance of the UNESCO-IOC Intergovernmental Coordination Group for the Tsunami Early Warning and Mitigation System in the North-Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and Connected Seas (ICG-NEAMTWS) has come to the forefront. This system coordinates tsunami risk management across 40 member states with access to the Mediterranean, Baltic, North, and Black Seas. Currently, the system is designed to detect and respond to seismic-driven tsunamis, with ongoing efforts to expand its scope to include non-seismic tsunamis, such as those caused by volcanic eruptions and landslides.
To enhance coordination, the UNESCO-IOC Technical Secretary of ICG-NEAMTWS has requested its Steering Committee, composed of representatives from multiple countries, to share insights on the evolving situation. A dedicated, independent communication channel has been established between the Technical Secretary, the Hellenic National Tsunami Warning Center (HL-NTWC) at NOA, and Türkiye’s Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute (KOERI) to facilitate the rapid exchange of critical information, particularly during nighttime and weekends.
Furthermore, NEAMTWS Tsunami Service Providers are organizing a meeting to review operational procedures and communication strategies for member states, with special attention to non-seismic tsunami events. Additionally, experts are considering a closed scientific meeting to assess the evolving seismic activity near Santorini. In response to the growing concerns, the Hellenic National Tsunami Warning Center (HL-NTWC) swiftly installed a new tide gauge station at Pori on Santorini’s northeastern coast. This new station is expected to significantly enhance sea-level monitoring and strengthen early warning capabilities.
Looking Ahead
With different schools of thought on the causes and triggers of the ongoing earthquake swarm, continued research and monitoring will be key in reaching a scientific consensus. The situation remains dynamic, and disaster risk professionals will continue to emphasize preparedness, timely communication, and proactive measures to ensure public safety in Santorini and the surrounding region.
Acknowledgments: Thanks to Dr. Nikos Kalligeris, Dr. Marinos Charalampakis (Institute of Geodynamics, NOA, Greece), Prof. Ahmet Cevdet Yalciner (Middle East Technical University, Türkiye), Prof. Dr. Nurcan Meral Özel (Director, Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute, Türkiye), and Dr. Musavver Didem Cambaz (RETMC Deputy Director) for their insights and feedback.
Source:
www.unesco.org
Ōfunato Wildfire, Japan
February 26 – March 9, 2025 A wildfire began in Ōfunato, Iwate Prefecture, Japan, covering a significant area before being extinguished on March 9. It destroyed 171 structures, resulted in one fatality, and forced over 4,500 people to evacuate. This was the largest wildfire in Japan in over 50 years.
Largest Wildfire in Japan in 50 Years Devastates Ōfunato
Ōfunato, Japan — A massive wildfire that broke out on February 26 in the city of Ōfunato, Iwate Prefecture, has been extinguished after burning for 12 days, marking Japan’s largest wildfire in over 50 years. The blaze, which consumed approximately 2,900 hectares (7,166 acres), destroyed 171 structures, resulted in one fatality, and forced the evacuation of 4,596 residents.
Severe Drought Conditions Fuel Disaster
The fire erupted in Akasaki Town during Ōfunato’s dry season, following Japan’s hottest recorded year in 2024. The region had received only 2.5 mm of rainfall in February-a historic low compared to the 41 mm average. Experts attributed the rapid spread of the fire to the area’s dry conditions, steep mountainous terrain, and highly flammable coniferous trees.
Fire’s Rapid Spread and Evacuation Orders
The wildfire was first reported at 1:02 p.m. on February 26. Within hours, evacuation orders were issued, initially affecting the Ryōri area. By the evening, the fire had expanded to 600 hectares, with 84 structures damaged and more than 2,000 people displaced.
As the fire raged on, authorities extended evacuation orders to multiple districts. By March 1, nearly 1,900 households had been affected, with the blaze spreading to 1,400 hectares. The fire continued growing, reaching 2,900 hectares by March 5. The following day, authorities confirmed that it had surpassed Japan’s previous record for wildfire size, set in Hokkaido in 1975.
Efforts to Contain the Fire
Firefighters from 15 prefectures, totalling 2,030 personnel, along with 13 aerial firefighting teams, battled the flames. The Japan Self-Defence Forces were deployed, and disaster relief measures were enacted to aid displaced residents.
Rainfall on March 5 provided a crucial break in firefighting efforts, although officials noted that the fire remained a threat. Evacuation orders were lifted gradually, with 957 residents allowed to return on March 7, and the final orders lifted on March 10.
Casualties and Impact
The fire claimed the life of a 90-year-old man whose body was discovered on February 27. In addition to the 171 structures destroyed, another 39 buildings sustained damage. Electricity was cut to 500 households, and several schools and businesses, including Taiheiyo Cement’s Akasaki plant, suspended operations. Transportation was also disrupted, with sections of Sanriku Railway closed and road access restricted.
The fishing industry suffered significant losses, with multiple processing plants destroyed and fishermen losing vital equipment. Additionally, nearly 3,000 chickens perished due to lack of food and water while their facilities were inaccessible.
Government Response and Recovery Efforts
The Japanese government declared the wildfire a “severe disaster,” unlocking financial assistance for rebuilding efforts. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba pledged support for affected communities. By March 6, Ōfunato had received over 3,600 donations, amounting to approximately ¥160 million (US$1.46 million), with contributions from high-profile figures, including baseball star Roki Sasaki and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
With the fire now fully contained, recovery efforts are underway to rebuild homes, businesses, and infrastructure in Ōfunato. The cause of the wildfire remains under investigation.
Source:
www.nippon.com
Scaling Up Disaster Risk Reduction: A New Roadmap for Humanitarian Action
On 2nd July 2024, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) unveiled a significant milestone in global disaster management efforts—the “Checklist on Scaling Up Disaster Risk Reduction in Humanitarian Action.” This comprehensive tool is poised to transform the way humanitarian, development, and peace actors address disaster risks, marking a critical step towards integrating risk reduction strategies into humanitarian planning and programming at both global and national levels.
In an era characterized by unprecedented fragility and uncertainty, the UNDRR’s checklist emerges as a pivotal resource for actors engaged in humanitarian settings. The document emphasizes that current response efforts are often limited to short-term needs, overlooking the disaster-related risks that compound crises over time. It recognizes that few humanitarian planning documents fully incorporate risk assessments or climate impacts, and even fewer appeals include measures for disaster risk reduction (DRR) or climate adaptation. This gap is particularly concerning given that protracted crises account for approximately 80% of humanitarian operations globally. By addressing root causes, humanitarian efforts can become more effective, creating resilient systems capable of withstanding future shocks.
The checklist serves as a roadmap for operationalizing risk-informed humanitarian action. It offers practical guidance to humanitarian, development, and peace (HDP) actors, outlining how to align risk reduction measures within existing frameworks. The tool promotes a systems-based approach to risk analysis, ensuring that DRR actions are adapted to national contexts and respond to specific risks. This collaborative model allows actors to identify entry points for strengthening risk reduction, creating opportunities for joint planning and implementation across sectors. Workshops and capacity-building initiatives are encouraged as part of the checklist’s rollout, ensuring broad-based engagement with DRR concepts.
Implementing
Risk-Informed Planning for Long-Term Impact
The first key step outlined by the UNDRR checklist is risk-informed planning. By embedding specific risk reduction activities into humanitarian responses, actors can ensure that their actions address both immediate needs and long-term vulnerabilities. The checklist suggests that HDP actors work together on collective outcomes, reducing risks and enhancing resilience by focusing on the root causes of crises.
This approach highlights the necessity for continuous training and engagement with both the development community and local stakeholders. For example, in Ethiopia, a workshop organized by UNDRR and OCHA in 2023 emphasized the importance of engaging development actors and mapping local capacities for disaster response. Participants from various clusters identified common priorities, including the need for private sector involvement in DRR training.
Increased awareness is another key pillar of the checklist. It encourages humanitarian actors, government entities, and donor organizations to invest in DRR measures. Raising awareness of the benefits of integrating DRR into humanitarian action not only helps to reduce future risks but also makes interventions more sustainable, improving long-term resilience in affected communities.
Integrating Disaster Risk Reduction Beyond
Humanitarian Cycles
The checklist extends its application beyond the Humanitarian Programme Cycle (HPC), promoting collaboration between humanitarian and development efforts. It stresses the importance of adopting a human rights-based, gender-responsive, and conflict-sensitive approach in DRR activities. This holistic perspective ensures that risk reduction measures are tailored to the specific needs of vulnerable groups and that actions contribute to broader goals of peacebuilding and sustainability.
At the core of this guidance is a call for a more integrated and coordinated response mechanism. The checklist encourages HDP actors to incorporate DRR dialogue into global and national coordination frameworks, using various information management tools to enhance risk reduction efforts. Such integration not only improves operational efficiency but also ensures that DRR becomes a permanent fixture in humanitarian and development agendas.
Global Examples of Checklist Application
The UNDRR has already piloted the checklist in several regions. In Central America’s Northern Triangle (El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras), risk-informed training sessions were conducted in collaboration with OCHA, integrating the checklist into broader humanitarian needs assessments. Over 120 humanitarian and development partners collectively analyzed critical issues such as climate change, migration, and economic crises from a risk-informed perspective. This initiative demonstrated how the checklist could facilitate a unified approach to addressing humanitarian needs and risks simultaneously.
In Haiti and El Salvador, UNDRR continues to work with OCHA to systematically integrate risk perspectives into overall planning. These ongoing efforts underscore the importance of risk-informed programming, which reduces humanitarian needs and builds resilience at both the local and national levels. By ensuring that DRR is woven into the fabric of humanitarian action, the checklist aims to create a future where disaster risks are not only mitigated but also anticipated and managed through collaborative, well-informed strategies.
A Comprehensive Tool for the Future of
Humanitarian Action
The Checklist on Scaling Up Disaster Risk Reduction in Humanitarian Action is more than just a document; it is a comprehensive framework for change. As humanitarian actors navigate increasingly complex global crises, this tool provides the guidance needed to shift from reactive to proactive disaster management strategies. By implementing the checklist’s recommendations, humanitarian efforts can evolve to not only respond to immediate needs but also build the resilience necessary to withstand future disasters.
UNDRR’s checklist is poised to be a game-changer in humanitarian action, offering a clear and systematic approach to scaling up disaster risk reduction efforts. Through increased awareness, risk-informed planning, and coordinated action across humanitarian and development sectors, the checklist will help shape a more resilient, sustainable future for communities worldwide.
Source:
www.undrr.org
Hurricane Ernesto Targets Bermuda After Devastating Puerto Rico
As Hurricane Ernesto roars toward Bermuda, the Caribbean island is bracing for impact after the storm has already wreaked havoc in Puerto Rico, leaving hundreds of thousands without power or water amid an oppressive heatwave. A hurricane warning is now in effect for Bermuda, with Ernesto projected to reach the island on Saturday as a formidable Category 3 hurricane, threatening to deliver torrential rains and high winds.
Currently positioned about 605 miles (975 km) south-southwest of Bermuda, Ernesto has maximum sustained winds of 85 mph (140 km/h) and is moving north at a pace of 13 mph. National Security Minister Michael Weeks has issued an urgent call to action for residents, emphasizing the dire need for preparedness. “I cannot stress enough how important it is for every resident to use this time to prepare. We have seen in the past the devastating effects of complacency,” he stated, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
With forecasts predicting that Ernesto will intensify into a major hurricane before its arrival, Bermuda could face significant rainfall ranging from 4 to 8 inches, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 12 inches. “All of the guidance shows this system as a large hurricane near Bermuda,” warned the National Hurricane Center in Miami. Residents are urged to take proactive measures to safeguard their homes and families as the storm approaches.
Meanwhile, Puerto Rico is reeling from the storm’s initial assault. After passing over the island as a tropical storm late Tuesday, Ernesto has left over 450,000 customers without power, and many are questioning how such extensive outages could occur from a storm that was merely a tropical system at the time. “I haven’t slept at all,” lamented Ramón Mercedes Paredes, a construction worker who plans to sleep outdoors to escape the sweltering heat. “I haven’t even been able to take a shower.”
The situation has led many residents to seek refuge in public parks, like Alexander Reyna, a 32-year-old construction worker, who lamented the lack of a cooling breeze. With no access to water or electricity, he remarked, “I have to come here because I cannot stand to be at home.” This widespread crisis is exacerbated by memories of Hurricane Maria, which devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, claiming nearly 3,000 lives and obliterating the island’s power grid—an infrastructure that is still in the process of being rebuilt.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory, warning of “dangerously hot and humid conditions” that threaten the health of residents, particularly those without access to generators or adequate cooling solutions. Faustino Peguero, a concerned husband whose wife suffers from multiple health conditions, expressed his fears about the current situation. With limited fuel for his small generator, he lamented, “It’s chaos.”
As concerns mount over the prolonged power outages and the overall health and safety of Puerto Rico’s 3.2 million residents—many of whom live below the poverty line—officials have been unable to provide a timeline for when power will be fully restored. The mounting stress and anxiety in the face of Hurricane Ernesto’s fury serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing vulnerabilities faced by communities in the Caribbean as they confront the dual threats of severe weather and systemic infrastructure challenges.
Source:
www.theguardian.com
Devastating Flash Floods Ravage Bangladesh: Millions Affected, Relief Efforts Intensify
Bangladesh has been reeling under the impact of severe flash floods after days of relentless monsoon rains battered the nation’s north and southeastern regions between August 21 and 25. The prolonged downpour has triggered catastrophic flooding, affecting over 5.2 million people and forcing hundreds of thousands to seek refuge in shelters. The magnitude of the disaster has overwhelmed rural areas, crippling infrastructure and leaving communities in despair as they struggle to recover from the worst of nature’s fury.
As of the latest reports, at least 18 people have tragically lost their lives to the rising floodwaters, with rescue operations continuing across the hardest-hit districts. Around 307,000 people are currently residing in temporary shelters, having fled their submerged homes. In total, 311,419 hectares of land—ranging from vital agricultural fields to fishponds supporting local aquaculture—now lies underwater. The floods have also destroyed rural roads, cutting off access to crucial supplies and hindering communication in many parts of the country. Power outages have exacerbated the crisis, leaving nearly 928,000 people without electricity, and over 7,000 schools have had to close, disrupting the lives of millions of students.
Despite the widespread devastation, glimmers of hope have begun to emerge. Bangladesh’s Disaster Management Minister has confirmed that floodwaters are beginning to recede, offering some respite to those affected. However, the road to recovery remains long, and immediate relief efforts are underway as rescue teams—bolstered by the military and navy—continue to bring aid to displaced families. Emergency responders are delivering essential supplies, including food, water, and medical aid, to those cut off from assistance.
Communication and coordination efforts have faced significant setbacks due to limited connectivity and ongoing power outages, but the resilience of the affected communities and the dedication of relief teams remain unwavering. While the flood situation shows signs of improvement, the impact of this disaster will be felt long after the waters have fully receded. With crops destroyed, livelihoods lost, and critical infrastructure damaged, the people of Bangladesh face an enormous challenge in rebuilding their lives.
This catastrophe once again highlights the vulnerability of low-lying regions to climate-related disasters and the urgent need for sustainable flood management solutions. The international community has been closely monitoring the situation, with tools like the UNOSAT Flood Monitoring Dashboard providing real-time insights into the unfolding crisis.
As Bangladesh continues its battle against nature’s wrath, the nation’s resilience and the ongoing relief efforts stand as a testament to the strength and solidarity of its people.
Source:
Disasterscharter.org
Typhoon Shanshan Slams Japan: Nation Braces for Unprecedented Disaster
Japan is in the grip of a powerful natural disaster as Typhoon Shanshan, the strongest typhoon of 2024, made landfall on the southern island of Kyushu. With torrential rainfall and wind speeds reaching a staggering 252 km/h (157 mph), the typhoon is threatening to unleash widespread destruction across the region. As Japan’s Meteorological Agency warns of over a meter of rain falling within 48 hours, tens of thousands of people have been urged to evacuate, while the nation braces for what could become a “major disaster.”
The typhoon touched down at approximately 8 AM in southern Kyushu, already leaving over 254,000 homes without electricity. The storm’s slow pace, moving northwards at just 15 km/h, is exacerbating concerns, as it gives Shanshan ample time to wreak havoc. The meteorological agency has predicted 1,100 mm (43 inches) of rainfall over two days, which is around half of the region’s annual rainfall.
Authorities have issued rare special typhoon warnings, particularly for Kagoshima prefecture, as residents remain on high alert. The risk of landslides in the mountainous regions is escalating, and with transport disruptions, including canceled trains and flights, the country’s infrastructure is straining under the pressure of this massive storm.
Tragically, Typhoon Shanshan has already claimed lives. Three members of a family were buried in a landslide in Gamagori city, central Japan. The victims, a couple in their 70s and their son in his 30s, perished, while two daughters survived with injuries. This heartbreaking incident is just one of many feared to occur as the typhoon continues its path of destruction.
The magnitude of the disaster has forced major automakers like Toyota to halt production in all 14 of its factories. In the meantime, Japan Airlines and ANA have canceled hundreds of flights, stranding 25,000 passengers, and railway services, including the iconic bullet trains, have been suspended.
As public broadcaster NHK TV showed videos of homes with roof tiles ripped off, shattered windows, and trees uprooted, the scale of the destruction becomes apparent. One resident in Miyazaki shared a harrowing story of how their carport roof was blown away entirely, with the violent shaking mistaken for an earthquake by their children. “It was completely beyond our imagination,” they said.
Government officials, including chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, have warned that Typhoon Shanshan’s violent winds, high waves, and storm surges are unlike anything many residents have experienced before. The slow-moving nature of the storm only increases the potential for catastrophic damage. Forecasters have made it clear: this typhoon is not to be underestimated, and the possibility of a major disaster looms large.
Japan has only issued its highest level of typhoon warnings three times before, underscoring the severity of the current situation. The last major warning was in September 2022, when five people lost their lives to a similar storm.
Typhoon Shanshan’s slow march through Kyushu is reminiscent of other recent powerful storms, and experts warn that these intense tropical cyclones are becoming more frequent due to the global climate crisis. Rising sea levels and warmer oceans are contributing to stronger, longer-lasting storms, and the effects are devastating coastal communities worldwide. The storm surge caused by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines in 2013, for example, was about 20% higher due to human-caused climate breakdown.
As Japan confronts Shanshan’s fury, the reality of climate change looms large. Warming oceans are fueling stronger storms, increasing rainfall, and pushing coastal storm surges higher. The impacts of these storms are becoming more destructive, more frequent, and more deadly. Typhoon Shanshan is the latest in a growing list of climate-fueled disasters, and its devastating effects will likely linger long after the storm passes.
Source:
www.theguardian.com