Water: The key to unlocking synergies between the Rio Conventions 

The management of water resources is intrinsically linked to challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and desertification. However, global efforts to address these issues remain fragmented, carried out through the separate frameworks of the three Rio Conventions. Each convention approaches water management from distinct perspectives—land degradation, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation. The interconnected nature of these issues points to the critical need for a more coordinated strategy. Strengthened policy alignment, shared financing, and unified frameworks provide an opportunity to harmonize water management across these conventions.

The Worst Flood in 100 Years Just Hit South America 

South America has a long history of floods, but it is rare to see a flood of this magnitude. The continent’s diverse geography, from the mighty Amazon River to the Andes mountains, has been both a blessing and a curse. Historically, floods have been part of the natural cycle, feeding the lush rainforests and supporting biodiversity. However, they can also bring devastation to human settlements. The recent flood, however, surpasses any in living memory, marking a significant deviation from the norm. In comparison to past floods, this event stands out not just in scale but also in its impact on the population and infrastructure.

South Korea wildfires ‘largest on record’: disaster chief 

Wildfires in South Korea are now the largest and deadliest on record, having burned more forest and killed more people than any previous blaze, officials said Thursday, as the death toll hit 27.

More than a dozen fires broke out over the weekend, scorching wide swathes of the southeast and forcing around 37,000 people to flee, with the fire cutting off roads and downing communications lines as residents escaped in panic.

South Korea’s Ministry of Interior and Safety said that 27 people had been killed and dozens more injured, with the toll likely to rise. It is the highest number of deaths since the Korea Forest Service started records for wildfires in 1987.

When the Lights Go Out: How the Heathrow Airport Shutdown Exposes Our Critical Infrastructure Vulnerabilities 

Few could have predicted the following cascade of consequences when a fire broke out at an electrical substation in Hayes, west London, on the evening of March 21, 2025. By morning, Europe’s busiest airport—London Heathrow—had been completely shut down, with more than 1,300 flights canceled, affecting up to 200,000 passengers worldwide. What began as a localized incident quickly became an international transportation crisis that would take days to resolve.

The Heathrow shutdown represents a stark reminder of how vulnerable our modern society has become to critical infrastructure failures, whether caused by accidents, natural disasters, or deliberate attacks.

Pacific Prepared Podcast: Recent earthquake activity in Tonga has tested the nerves of residents since the volcanic eruption and tsunami in early 2022  

Coastal communities in Tonga live with the ongoing psychological scars of the 2022 volcanic eruption and tsunami. Tonga Broadcasting Commission explains how communities have responded to recent earthquake activity in the country. The weather and how it affects you is already part of your life, so let’s keep talking about being prepared.

Africa is proof that investing in climate resilience works – and that it makes good business sense 

Investment is pouring into renewable energy, green transport and smart agriculture in an effort to both slow down the accumulation of heat-trapping emissions and adapt to our warming planet. The benefits of taking early action are well understood, even if the needs outpace the funding for it. Africa was an early champion of climate adaptation. That is because 17 of the 20 countries most vulnerable to climate change are on our continent.

Preparing for extreme weather scenarios in Cambodia 

For decades, weather extremes have disrupted lives and livelihoods in Cambodia. Yet, despite the increasing frequency and severity of floods, storms, and droughts, the models used to estimate their economic impacts remain underdeveloped. While we can estimate long-term warming trends, the exact impacts of acute disasters remain uncertain. This uncertainty makes it crucial to prepare not just for what is expected, but for what might happen.

Occupational heat safety standards in the United States 

Extreme heat poses a range of potentially debilitating or deadly threats to workers. Although experts have been recommending commonsense criteria for a standard to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for most of its 50-year history, many millions of workers in America lack adequate protection from heat.

Next generation city climate services using advanced weather models and emerging data sources 

Record-breaking temperatures are becoming ever more frequent and intense. Over 1.7 billion people around the world are at risk, says the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). They add that around half of the world’s cities have faced increased heat exposure over the last four decades. This has an impact on public health, labour productivity and infrastructure.

The Ocean Economy to 2050 

The ocean economy has long been a powerful driver of global growth, creating jobs, fuelling development, and ensuring food security for millions worldwide. If the ocean economy were a country, it would be the fifth largest economy in the world. However, climate change, environmental degradation, lagging productivity, and slow digital transformation are intensifying pressures on marine ecosystems and economic potential. Tackling these challenges requires bold, co-ordinated action, not only to safeguard marine ecosystems but to sustain the ocean economy as a source of prosperity for future generations.

Accelerating compound flood risk assessments through active learning: a case study of Charleston County (USA) 

This study introduces a novel framework that uses active learning to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of compound flood risk assessments. Focused on Charleston County, South Carolina, it addresses limitations in traditional stochastic modeling that arise due to the computational burden of simulating numerous flood scenarios involving multiple drivers like storm surge, tides, and precipitation. By employing a Treed Gaussian Process (TGP) model, the framework selects the most informative flood events to simulate, reducing redundancy and allowing more complex variables (such as driver duration and time lags) to be considered without overwhelming computational costs.

Nature-based Solutions as Building Blocks for coastal flood risk reduction: a model-based ecosystem service assessment 

Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are increasingly recognized as effective measures for mitigating flood risks and enhancing climate change adaptation. However, evaluating their efficacy in delivering flood risk reduction ecosystem service (FRR-ESS) is usually limited by reliance on qualitative, expert-based “quick-scan” scoring methods. The present study introduces a model-based framework to quantify FRR-ESS provided by coastal NbS, which integrates expert-based assessments with quantitative results from an eco-hydro-morphodynamic numerical model. The model enables a comparative evaluation of individual and combined effects of NbS following a Building Blocks approach. By integrating habitat map change prediction in the evaluation, NbS flood reduction response to present and future storm scenarios are investigated.

Interconnected disaster risks: Turning over a new leaf (2025 report) 

The 2025 Interconnected Disaster Risks report shifts focus from diagnosing problems to mapping out solutions. It establishes that many of today’s solutions are surface-level fixes, and that to create lasting change, we need to question the societal structures and mindsets that perpetuate these challenges. The report offers a more holistic analysis of what lies at the heart of human actions, and how true change can be achieved, and it also gives real-world examples of positive changes that have been made around the world and can serve as a model and source of inspiration.

Healthcare in a changing climate: Investing in resilient solutions 

The report analyses preventable human and economic impacts of climate change across 11 diseases and conditions: malaria, dengue fever, cholera, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, stunting, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, fatalities and injuries, heat-related diseases and asthma. Climate change will have a profound impact on people and economies – causing an estimated additional 14.5 million deaths and $12.5 trillion in economic costs between today and 2050.

WRRC Webinar: Paving the Way: Optimizing Governance Mechanisms for Resilient Recovery 

The discussion will draw on lessons from past disaster recoveries, showcasing how different governance models have shaped recovery outcomes. Key themes include cross-sectoral coordination, institutional capacity, financing mechanisms, and strategies for ensuring inclusive decision-making. Insights from global case studies will inform practical approaches to strengthening governance for resilient recovery, aligning with Sendai Framework Priority 4 and the Global Call to Action for Investing in Readiness for Resilient Recovery.

Change now – The world expo of solutions for the planet 

At the midway point of the 2020-2030 decade for decisive climate action, and echoing the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, ChangeNOW 2025 gathers 1,000 groundbreaking solutions and visionary leaders in a spectacular showcase to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable world.

Our Ocean, Our action 

The 10th Our Ocean Conference has chosen the theme ‘Our Ocean, Our Action’ to promote global actions for a sustainable ocean. In particular, this 10th conference will discuss ‘Digital Oceans’ as a special agenda, focusing on means to drive action. Ocean Digital is a concept that combines the ocean industry and digital technology, serving as an implementation tool to achieve a sustainable ocean swiftly and systematically.

Storm surge virtual reality simulation designed to save lives

Weather the Storm, a virtual reality simulation that takes users through the effects of storm surge to communicate its devastating and sometimes fatal consequences, is now available for download. This simulation is available thanks to a partnership with University of Georgia, Clemson University, Georgia Sea Grant and South Carolina Sea Grant  and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Flooding expected sooner in Hawai’i’s sinking coastal areas

Some parts of Hawai‘i are sinking faster than others. That discovery, published recently in a study by researchers at the University of Hawai‘i (UH) at Mānoa, also highlights that as sea level rises, the infrastructure, businesses, and communities in these low-lying areas are at risk of flooding sooner than scientists anticipated, particularly in certain urban areas of O‘ahu.

Compound climate events are on the rise. It’s time for action

Compound events – where two or more hazards, such as heatwaves and floods, occur simultaneously or in close succession – are becoming more common. This phenomenon often results in more severe negative outcomes than if each hazard were to occur separately. Recent incidents in Pakistan and the United States highlight existing resilience gaps, and the adaptation solutions required to reduce the impact of compound events.

Water and climate: Rising risks for urban populations

Right now, 90% of climate disasters are water-related, and the 4.4 billion people who live in towns and cities – especially in low-income countries – are on the frontlines.

As the climate crisis continues to throw the water cycle out of balance, many of the world’s largest cities are impacted in ways that are hard to anticipate and plan for. The frequency and magnitude of events such as floods and droughts are evolving due to climatic trends. And when water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services and systems cannot cope with intensifying and unpredictable climatic extremes, it is often the most vulnerable and marginalised people who suffer the worst impacts on their health, education and livelihoods, pushing them further into poverty.

Enhancing climate resilience with smarter data: the role of dynamic social registries

2024 has been marked by catastrophic floods caused by climate change in many regions of the world. In West and Central Africa alone, nearly 7 million people have been affected by rising waters following torrential rains. These floods exacerbate food insecurity, which is expected to impact 55 million people this year. As is often the case, the poorest populations are the most vulnerable. In response to the increasingly frequency of floods and droughts, several countries in West and Central Africa are developing climate-adaptive social protection systems. The goal is to build the resilience of poor populations and ensure a rapid response in times of crisis.

The Philippines: Harnessing smart tech for disaster preparedness

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), has developed the Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System (REDAS). This technology provides science-based data to facilitate quick, informed decision-making during disaster events.

REDAS is a powerful tool that simulates earthquake impacts, monitors various hazards, and offers near-real-time risk assessments. It is designed to provide LGUs with the crucial information needed to reduce disaster risks and improve response times.

New Zealand and Japan collaborate on smart disaster resilience

The New Zealand Government is investing in research and technology partnerships that will significantly enhance the nation’s ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters. Dr Shane Reti, Minister for Science, Innovation, and Technology, announced that three research teams from New Zealand have been granted funding to collaborate with leading Japanese research organisations on projects designed to boost New Zealand’s resilience when disasters strike.

Water and climate: Rising risks for urban populations 

This report highlights how the cities facing the worst climate impacts are often those with the highest social vulnerability. Many communities ‘whiplash’ between droughts that dry up water sources followed close by floods that overwhelm infrastructure, destroying toilets and sanitation systems, contaminating drinking water. Other cities are experiencing dramatic climate reversals – places accustomed to heavy rainfall now face drought, while historically arid regions now grapple with unexpected floods.

Flood impacts on healthcare facilities and disaster preparedness – a systematic review

This study reviewed scientific articles to assess the impacts of floods on healthcare facilities (HCFs) and the risk management strategies used. Researchers searched four databases for English-language studies on flood and cyclone hazards, HCF types, and disaster risk management, following PRISMA guidelines. From 7,500 records, 74 studies were selected.

Pre-financing anticipatory action: a practical guide for national societies

This guide explains the value of a pre-financing strategy and key factors to consider in its development. It details different pre-financing options to support effective decision-making and provides step-by-step guidance for National Societies to design and implement their strategy.

While relevant to all National Societies engaged in anticipatory action, different sections may be particularly useful for program managers, finance officers, and logistics teams based on their roles in the process.

GEOGLAM Crop Monitor for Early Warning report: March 2025

he GEOGLAM Crop Monitor for Early Warning (CM4EW) is an international and transparent multi-source, consensus assessment of the crop growing conditions, status, and agro-climatic conditions that are likely to impact global production. This is the March 2025 report.

Climate change in rural landscapes – systemic solutions for a sustainable future

This factsheet examines the systemic challenges of climate change in rural landscapes and explores integrated solutions for climate-resilient and low-emission development. It highlights the interconnections between climate change, agriculture, biodiversity, and livelihoods, emphasizing equitable access to land, water, and resources.

World Water Day

World Water Day, held on 22 March every year since 1993, is an annual United Nations Observance focusing on the importance of freshwater.  

 Launch of the 1st World Day for Glaciers and pivot event World Water Day in New York

4th Workshop Social Media for Disaster Risk Management: Researchers meet Practitioners

Deep-dive on Satellite Observations for Hydrology 

The central goal of the International Multi-risk Seminar is to advance the conceptual and methodological debate on how to evaluate and manage contexts where multiple risks overlap and result in other forms

From Stockholm to COP 29:

The Water Diplomat: What does Stockholm World Water Week represent to you, and how does the World Water Week help to deepen your understanding of water challenges and solutions? A conversation with Bapon Fakhruddin, Water and Climate Leader at the Green Climate Fund and Henk Ovink, Executive Director of the Global Commission on the Economics of Water.

Assessing the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton on small businesses

After making landfall in Florida on October 9, 2024, Hurricane Milton swept a path across the state, affecting 34 counties, many of which had already been exposed to Hurricane Helene only a few days earlier. The counties Milton affected are collectively home to almost 60 percent of the state’s MSMEs. Those 1.9 million small businesses employ about 4 million people and generate more than half a trillion dollars in revenue. Of these 34 counties, the 25 that endured winds of greater than 58 miles per hour are home to 35 percent of the state’s MSMEs.

New Lancet Countdown Report reveals record-breaking health threats of climate inaction

Shouro Dasgupta, a researcher with the CMCC Foundation, contributed new findings to the Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change’s eighth annual global report, which highlights the rising health risks posed by climate change, with worsening effects worldwide. The report points to the dangers of ongoing fossil fuel investments and inadequate funding for climate resilience, underscoring that these choices are increasing health vulnerabilities in many regions.

The Lancet urges divestment from fossil fuels to save lives

The 2024 Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change, launched today, reveals a stark escalation in climate-related health threats, with 10 of 15 indicators tracking health threats reaching alarming new records. In 2023 alone, people faced an average of 50 additional days of health-threatening temperatures than expected without climate change, and nearly half the world experienced severe drought, associated with heightened food insecurity for 151 million more people compared to previous decades. Despite the availability of clean energy solutions, governments and companies continue to invest trillions in fossil fuels, exacerbating these health risks. The report calls for an urgent redirection of these funds to build a healthier, more sustainable future and underscores the need for a rapid, just transition to net zero emissions.

Satellites could hold the key to keeping the lights turned on

Extreme weather is becoming more common around the world, with climatic events such as storms often causing damage to power networks, resulting in a loss of electricity – but could satellites prove to be a solution to maintaining energy supplies on earth? Storms and floods can have devastating consequences, leaving thousands of homes without power, with vulnerable people particularly effected. At the same time, the amount of renewable energy entering the UK power grid is increasing significantly as the UK aims to reach Net Zero by 2050.

Strengthening climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agriculture Livelihoods in Iraq (SRVALI)

“Strengthening Climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agriculture Livelihoods in Iraq (SRVALI)” project. This landmark initiative is set to transform the lives of the most vulnerable people in Iraq, and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of it!

SRVALI is all about innovation and empowerment. We’re introducing climate-smart irrigation technologies, transitioning from open canals to closed piped systems, and integrating solar panels to power irrigation pumps. This not only enhances water efficiency but also showcases Iraq’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Plus, our Climate Wise Women (CWW) initiative empowers women as key change agents in climate adaptation.

Sectoral Guide: Water Security

Discover essential insights for developing robust, climate-resilient sanitation projects and enhancing access to climate finance. Climate change is evident around the globe, and it requires bold actions now to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Paris Agreement. In addition, water is one of the world’s most essential commodities and demand for water service has increased tremendously following population growth, economic development and changing consuming patterns. Facing increasing demand for this scarce resource, the global water business seems to offer investment opportunities.

Join the Green Climate Fund at COP29 on Nov 11, 15:15pm – 16:45 at the Joint Pavillion for the Launch of the Water Project Guidelines

Case studies of projects funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) in relation to the strategic workstreams of the Warsaw International Mechanism (WIM) for loss and damage

The Green Climate Fund’s projects demonstrated valuable experience in tackling the challenges of loss and damage caused by climate change. As the new loss and damage fund’s operationalization is in process, these case studies funded by GCF have significantly impacted through thorough risk management strategies.

From community engagement to community inclusion for socially and procedurally just flood risk governance

This systematic review investigates current approaches, barriers, and enablers of community engagement in urban flood risk governance (FRG) through a flood risk justice lens, employing a systematic search and an adapted ‘best fit’ framework synthesis methodology, and reporting results according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses transparent reporting system. The central theme of inclusivity emerged from the synthesis, which integrated sub-themes of relationality, non-universalism, power structures, and personal paradigms in a conceptual model.

Disaster Risk Management Action Plan, 2024–2030: Redoubling action toward disaster resilience

The Disaster Risk Management Action Plan (DRMAP), 2024–2030 aims to redouble Asian Development Bank (ADB) efforts toward achieving disaster resilience in Asia and the Pacific. It follows an integrated approach that considers disaster resilience as the result of investments across a range of relevant sectors. The DRMAP encourages dedicated efforts to address systemic risks through structural and nonstructural measures. The DRMAP sets out four interlinked strategic work streams to strengthen disaster resilience.

Australia State of the climate 2024

The biennial State of the Climate Report draws on the latest national and international climate research, monitoring, science and projection information to describe changes and long-term trends in Australia’s climate. It is intended to inform economic, environmental and social decision-making by governments, industries and communities. Observations, reconstructions of past climate and climate modelling continue to provide a consistent picture of ongoing, long‑term climate change interacting with underlying natural variability. Associated changes in weather and climate extremes— such as extreme heat, heavy rainfall, coastal inundation, fire weather and drought—exacerbate existing pressures on the health and wellbeing of our communities and ecosystems.

Nationally determined contributions under the Paris Agreement. Synthesis report by the secretariat

The report synthesizes information from 168 latest Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted by 195 Parties to the Paris Agreement, covering 95% of global emissions in 2019. It highlights that 94% of Parties have provided quantified mitigation targets, with global greenhouse gas emissions projected to be approximately 53.0 Gt CO₂ eq in 2025 and 51.5 Gt CO₂ eq in 2030-levels similar to 2019. While there is a potential for global emissions to peak before 2030, the current NDCs are insufficient to limit global warming to 1.5°C or 2°C above pre-industrial levels. The report emphasizes the increasing inclusion of adaptation strategies, gender considerations, and recognition of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in NDCs, but underscores the significant gap between current commitments and the emission reductions required to meet global climate goals.

UNFCCC Climate Change Conference (COP29): Side Event

A Regional Call to Action on Climate Change: Addressing Glacial Melting in Central and West Asia through Glaciers to Farms (G2F) Regional Program and CAREC Partnership for Climate, Innovation, and Trade

Thursday, 14 November 2024, 2:25 pm – 3:30 pm (Asia/Baku)
COP29 Presidency Area, Hirkan Room

Europe and Central Asia Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (EFDRR)

6 Nov – 8 Nov

The Regional Platform will assess progress on the regional EFDRR Roadmap for Disaster Risk Reduction 2021-2030 and build capacities of authorities and stakeholders to accelerate the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030.

Tsunami: Sea Change for Resilience exhibition launch

4^th Nov

Commemorating the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, 20 years on.

On 26 December 2004, an earthquake in the Indian Ocean caused a devastating tsunami that killed around 230,000 people in 14 countries. It remains one of the deadliest disasters in recent human history.

COP29

11 – 22^nd Nov

In Solidarity for a Green World

The 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

An international training workshop on open science infrastructures for disaster management 14-15 November 2024; MAS, Ulumbaartaar, Mongolia  

Open collaboration and open science among global stakeholders are vital to face the great challenges of this century and to ensure a sustainable world and healthy living conditions for future generations

Climate change will lead to wetter US winters, modeling study finds

Most Americans can expect wetter winters in the future due to global warming, according to a new study led by a University of Illinois Chicago scientist.

Using climate models to investigate how winter precipitation in the United States will change by the end of the 21st century, a team led by Akintomide Akinsanola found overall winter precipitation and extreme weather events will increase across most of the country.

New food early warning systems boost Fiji’s disaster preparedness amid growing climate risks

Approximately 171,611 Fijians in the Rewa Delta, Naitasiri, and parts of Tailevu will now benefit from 17 newly installed Flood Early Warning Systems. This advanced network of four rainfall stations, seven water level stations, and six warning posts will significantly enhance Fiji’s capacity to predict floods and execute timely evacuations, reducing the devastating impact of natural disasters on local communities.

The new warning system’s launch coincides perfectly with the Coalition Government’s recently unveiled National Development Plan, which aims to empower Fijians and create a more resilient nation and comes at a critical time for the country, which is facing increasing risks from climate change.

Research shows heat, drought and fire risk are increasing in South America

The number of days per year that are simultaneously extremely hot, dry, and have a high fire risk have as much as tripled since 1970 in some parts of South America.

South America is warming at a similar rate to the global average. However, some regions of the subcontinent are more at risk of the co-occurrence of multiple climate extremes. These compound extremes can have amplified impacts on ecosystems, economy, and human health. The authors additionally found that the likelihood of the compound conditions occurring on a regional basis was affected by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation. During the warm El Niño phase, fire risk increased in the northern Amazon region, while the cooler La Niña phase led to increased fire risk in central South America.

How to fix funding bottlenecks and pave the way for locally led adaptation

A new survey explores the operational bottlenecks preventing local organisations from accessing climate adaptation funding. As the UN General Assembly approaches, IIED’s May Thazin Aung and BRAC’s Sousan Suha share the survey’s findings and explains how funders can smooth the way for locally led adaptation.

Race to Resilience welcomes 3 new regions as part of RegionsAdapt to boost climate resilience in India, Senegal, and Brazil

Three new regions – Assam (India), Louga (Senegal), and Pernambuco (Brazil) – have joined the Race to Resilience campaign through RegionsAdapt, committing to enhance climate resilience. Discover how these areas are empowering local communities, from rural farming to coastal restoration, to protect their environments and create sustainable futures.

How satellites are boosting climate resilience of EU cities

Our cities are home to the vast majority of Europeans, but they are under pressure from the complexities of climate change and rapid urbanisation. The EU-funded CURE project leveraged the power of Earth Observation satellites to address these issues, aiming to create safer, more sustainable cities for EU citizens.

One of the biggest hurdles in sustainable urban planning has been the lack of direct access to environmental data at a local scale. CURE’s efforts aimed to fix this problem by taking advantage of the vast amount of information collected by Copernicus, the Earth Observation (EO) component of the EU Space Programme.

Scaling Climate Finance for Locally-Led Adaptation

As the frequency and impacts of climate events increase, demand for adaptation at the local level becomes urgent. The adaptation finance received from developing and least developed countries is estimated to be less than USD 25 billion per year, which is exponentially less than the required amount of USD 215 billion per year. Further, the evidence indicates that less than 10% of global climate finance reaches the local level. Local communities lack the institutional capacity, financial tools, and knowledge networks necessary to secure adaptation finance. Complex application procedures, limited funding availability, and unequal distribution exacerbate the challenge. This highlights the need for developing innovative approaches to enhance access to adaptation finance at the local level in the Global South.

Economic and non-economic loss and damage: a harmful dichotomy?

Loss and damage is treated as comprising separate ‘economic’ and ‘non-economic’ dimensions in research and policy. While this has contributed to greater awareness and visibility of non-economic values, our empirical insights show that the two are inextricably linked and that research aimed at informing policy must be better attuned to the multifaceted and cascading nature of loss and damage.

Climate change and high exposure increased costs and disruption to lives and livelihoods from flooding associated with exceptionally heavy rainfall in Central Europe

While the rain was extremely heavy in many locations, the extent of the event, stretching across many countries, was exceptional. Almost two million people were directly affected by the flooding caused by the extreme rainfall (blue News, 2024). The most severe impacts in urban areas were in the Polish-Czech border region and Austria (The Guardian, 2024). At the time of writing at least 24 people lost their lives (The Guardian, 2024; BNN, 2024; CBS, 2024) with several persons still missing several days after the event in Czechia (DW, 2024). All countries were affected by power cuts, leading to schools and factories closing as well as hospitals.

Regional Guidelines on Protection and Assistance to Persons Displaced Across Borders and Migrants in Countries Affected by Natural Disasters

The ‘Regional Guidelines on Protection and Assistance to Persons Displaced across Borders and Migrants in Countries Affected by Natural Disasters’ (hereinafter the Guidelines) aim to improve institutional capacity in the humanitarian response to the challenges of displacement due to disasters.

How humans are affecting the Northern Hemisphere’s wind patterns

Part of the problem is that the Earth’s air circulation systems, which help spread and disperse moisture and heat throughout the world, have been weakening over the years. However, the exact reasons for this weakening have eluded researchers.

Now, in two studies led by Dr. Rei Chemke of the Weizmann Institute of Science, researchers have managed to crack this mystery: Human activity is what has been making the air circulation systems weaker.

Both studies focused on the wind patterns that together act as a vital network through which wind-borne heat and moisture flow throughout the world. Forming a major part of this network are storm tracks, high-pressure and low-pressure weather systems that flow from west to east.

Reducing floodplain development doesn’t need to be complex, say researchers

A paper, titled “How local governments avoid floodplain development through consistent implementation of routine municipal ordinances, plans, and programs,” published in Oxford Open Climate Change uncovers evidence suggesting that, contrary to expectations, most U.S. cities are not doing too badly in avoiding development in areas prone to flooding, and those that are effective appear to be applying existing tools and strategies well, rather than doing anything particularly novel.

Disaster Research Days 2024: shaping the future of science and research for disaster risk reduction

DG HOME is pleased to announce a new CERIS event: Disaster Research Days 2024, which will be held in Vienna on 8-10 October 2024 with a focus on Shaping the Future of Science and Research for Disaster Risk Reduction!

The aim is to foster interaction among science and research and disaster risk reduction policies, through dialogues involving scientists, practitioners, risk managers, policymakers, and local communities. The event will showcase the latest research findings and innovative solutions aimed at enhancing societal resilience. Participants will engage in knowledge-sharing, tool development, and strategy formulation, addressing the multifaceted challenges of disaster risk reduction

Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction

The Government of the Philippines partners with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) to host the next Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) from 14 to 18 October 2024 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila (18 October is reserved for an optional site visit). The APMCDRR is the main platform in Asia and the Pacific to monitor, review and enhance cooperation for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 at the regional level.

MCR2030 Disaster Risk Financing Roundtable – Financing a transition towards climate resilience

The MCR2030 Disaster Risk Financing Roundtable will kick-off the first session at the Resilience Investment and Financing Forum segment on day two of the European Urban Resilience Forum 2023.

The Roundtable will offer a space for discussion and exchange of experiences from cities, municipalities, financial service providers, investors, and stakeholders on the mobilization of funding for disaster resilience plans and projects.

Bonn Technical Forum 2024 on Non-Economic Losses- Bonn, Germany 22-  23 October

Both the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Paris Agreement emphasize the importance of considering these non-economic aspects to enhance understanding, action, and support for loss and damage associated with climate change and disaster. The Sendai Framework includes explicit references to ecosystems, cultural heritage, traditional and indigenous knowledge, territory, health and other key factors influencing both vulnerability and resilience.