#disaster-preparedness

#disaster-preparedness

He said waiting any longer would be dangerous and expensive, and criticised those who deny the realities of global heating in Spain. Over the past five years, he said, the climate emergency had caused more than 20,000 deaths and cost the public purse 32bn (28bn) in material losses. We need to mobilise as a society against climate change, which is a common enemy that lies beyond ideologies, he said.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government's video warns an eruption could strike "at any moment, without warning," depicting volcanic ash shrouding central Tokyo, about 100 kilometers (60 miles) away, within hours, paralyzing transportation, disrupting food and power, and causing long-term respiratory problems. The video ends with the message: "We need to arm ourselves with facts and prepare for disaster in our daily lives." It shows a family's pantry stocked with canned food and a first-aid kit.

Twenty years ago this August, Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast. More than 1,300 lives were lost. It destroyed homes, displaced families, and overwhelmed many of the institutions that undergird civil society. It was also a wake-up call that reshaped how the country responds to natural disasters. Over the past two decades, we've made real progress. Government agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and community organizations have built stronger systems to prepare before disaster strikes.

The flood risk landscape has dramatically worsened since 2020 with Hurricane Helene headlining 27 disasters in the U.S. in 2024, costing $1 billion or more each.

Tsunamis are rare but can be catastrophic, occurring about twice a year near the source and less frequently in distant events.

The Trump administration will deny federal funding for disaster preparedness to states and cities that sever ties with Israeli companies, requiring compliance for $1.9 billion in federal funding.

The waves followed, reaching Hawaii, California, and parts of Washington. It was one of the strongest earthquakes ever recorded and though early reports show little damage, the event serves as a powerful reminder: Tsunami risk isn't just theoretical.

The focus of the special legislative session, beginning on 21 July, shifted to disaster preparedness including legislation to "improve early warning systems" and "strengthen emergency communications."

The deadly Texas floods could signal a new norm in the US, as Donald Trump and his allies dismantle crucial federal agencies that help states prepare for extreme weather.

Forecasters within NOAA predict this summer's hurricane season will be 'above average' in activity, while federal budget cuts are reducing preparedness and response capabilities.

FEMA boss David Richardson's surprise over the hurricane season illustrates a concerning lack of awareness as the agency prepares for potential disasters.

The Columbia Climate School Showcase was an eye-opener for me, allowing me to connect with professionals and expand my understanding of climate justice.