Disasters Archives - Page 22 of 42

Nov232024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Japan and UNDP Join Hands to Build Disaster-Resilient Evacuation Centers in Laos

Vientiane, November 24, 2024: The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have partnered to construct 12 state-of-the-art evacuation centers in the disaster-prone provinces of Khammouane, Salavan, and Champasack in Laos over the next three years. The initiative, valued at $3.8 million, aims to enhance disaster resilience and foster a culture of preparedness in the region. At the signing ceremony, H.E. Mr. Koizumi Tsutomu, Japan's Ambassador to Laos, emphasized the importance of the project: "This initiative not only ensures safety during emergencies but also promotes disaster awareness and preparedness. Japan remains committed to strengthening Laos' resilience as a strategic partner." A Lifeline for Vulnerable Communities The Strengthening Disast...

Nov212024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Tamil Nadu Declares Extreme Heat a State-Specific Disaster: A Welcome Move with Caveats

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Environment

In a significant step towards tackling the growing threats of climate change, the Tamil Nadu government officially notified extreme heat as a State-specific disaster in October. This decision broadens the scope of institutional mechanisms to protect those at risk of heat-related health issues or fatalities, offering a safety net for citizens during deadly heatwaves. However, while the move reflects foresight in addressing climate-induced risks, there are critical aspects that warrant closer scrutiny. Expanded Welfare Responsibilities By recognizing extreme heat as a disaster, Tamil Nadu takes on the responsibility to mitigate its effects, aligning with the broader mandate of public welfare. The notification includes proactive measures such as ensuring access to medical care, provi...

Nov212024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Snow to West Coast Bomb Cyclone and Atmospheric River Bring Heavy Rain

Breaking News, Disasters, Environment

The West Coast's rainy season has arrived with a dramatic start as an atmospheric river carrying tropical moisture collides with a powerful bomb cyclone off the Pacific Northwest coast. This weather duo is unleashing widespread heavy rainfall, strong winds, and mountain snow from Northern California to Washington. On Nov. 19, 2024, heavy wet snow began blanketing mountain regions while bursts of rain battered the coasts of Oregon and Northern California. Winds exceeding 70 mph have been recorded in parts of Washington as the bomb cyclone intensifies offshore. This storm’s strength is driven by the meeting of two potent weather phenomena. The atmospheric river a "river in the sky" transporting moisture from the subtropics feeds the bomb cyclone, a rapidly intensifying low-pressure sys...

Nov182024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Ethiopia Ranks Among Top Countries Feeling Unthreatened by Climate Change Despite Rising Risks

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Environment

According to the Lloyd's Register Foundation World Risk Poll, Ethiopia ranks second globally among countries where a significant proportion of people feel unthreatened by climate change. The poll reveals that 39% of Ethiopians believe climate change is "not a threat at all" to their safety, while 40% see it as a threat, including 16% who regard it as "very serious." Additionally, 21% are unsure whether climate change poses a threat. This perception contrasts starkly with scientific projections about the country's climate future. The UN Development Programme's Human Climate Horizons platform predicts Ethiopia’s average annual temperature could rise from 20°C (68°F) to 24°C (75°F) by the century’s end. It also forecasts up to 71 days annually exceeding 35°C (95°F), exacerbating the nation...

Nov182024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Tonga Strengthens Disaster Preparedness With Tsunami Drills

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters

According to our sources Residents of Tonga including students participated in a series of tsunami drills designed to enhance awareness and preparedness for future natural disasters. The drills focused on rapid evacuation and community coordination, crucial skills for the island nation, which is highly vulnerable to tsunamis. These exercises reflect Tonga's commitment to building resilience against climate-induced disasters. Preserving Pacific Heritage: Coconut Leaf Weaving Traditions Across the Pacific, the art of coconut leaf weaving continues to thrive, preserving a centuries-old cultural tradition. This intricate craft holds different meanings for Pacific communities, from practical uses like roofing and baskets to symbolic significance in ceremonies. Efforts to pass on this skil...

Nov182024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Delhi’s Air Pollution Disrupts Flights and Trains Amid Smog Crisis

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Environment

Severe smog blanketed Delhi on Monday, reducing visibility and causing significant disruptions to train and flight operations. The worsening air quality, classified as “severe plus,” led to delays across the city’s transportation network. Over 160 flights, including 118 departures and 43 arrivals, were delayed at Indira Gandhi International Airport by 8:30 am due to reduced visibility, according to Flightradar24. The airport activated low visibility procedures and issued an advisory urging passengers to stay updated with their airlines about flight statuses. Smog also disrupted train operations, delaying over 28 trains arriving at New Delhi and Anand Vihar Railway stations by two to nine hours. Passengers were seen waiting outside stations amid the confusion. Severe Air Quality Tr...

Nov162024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Typhoon Man-yi Nears Philippines Forcing Evacuations Amid Ongoing Recovery Efforts

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Environment

The Philippines braces for another powerful storm as Typhoon Man-yi approaches, bringing winds of up to 150 kilometers per hour. Expected to make landfall on Catanduanes Island late Saturday, authorities have initiated mass evacuations, moving hundreds of residents to safer areas. Roberto Monterola, operations chief of the Catanduanes civil defense office, expressed concern over the lack of sufficient evacuation centers. “Some evacuees will need to shelter with neighbors whose homes are built with stronger materials,” he stated, adding that thousands more are expected to evacuate before the typhoon strikes. This comes as the nation is still reeling from Typhoon Usagi, which caused extensive flooding, uprooted trees, and damaged infrastructure in Kaigan Province earlier this week. Res...

Nov152024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates: Second Most Polluted City in the World

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Environment

New Delhi: Delhi's air quality remains in the "severe" category for the third consecutive day, with the city now ranked the second most polluted globally. According to Swiss air quality monitoring firm IQAir, Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 498 on Friday morning, trailing only Lahore, Pakistan, which reported a shocking AQI of 770. Top Polluted Areas in Delhi The Central Pollution Control Board’s Sameer app highlighted the city’s worst-affected areas: Jahangirpuri: AQI 458 Bawana: AQI 455 Wazirpur: AQI 455 Rohini: AQI 452 Punjabi Bagh: AQI 443 Transport Hit Hard by Smog Thick smog reduced visibility across the city, with Palam and Safdarjung areas reporting visibility as low as 500m and 400m, respectively. This has severely disrupted transport servic...

Nov142024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Earthquake of Magnitude 5.2 Jolts Jammu and Kashmir, No Reported Damage

Breaking News, Disasters

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir – A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck the Jammu and Kashmir region on Wednesday morning, prompting people in the Kashmir Valley to rush outdoors in a panic. The tremor, originating in the Afghanistan region, was felt at 10:43 a.m. according to local officials. Though the quake was strong enough to be widely felt, initial reports indicate there were no casualties or significant damage to property. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, but early assessments suggest minimal impact on infrastructure. Residents of the valley, accustomed to seismic activity, were nonetheless alarmed as the quake briefly rattled buildings and caused moment. From News Desk

Nov142024 by Editor DeskNo Comments

Toxic Smog Engulfs New Delhi as Air Pollution Soars to 50 Times WHO Limit

Breaking News, Climate Actions, Disasters, Environment

New Delhi, India – A dense toxic smog blanketed New Delhi on Wednesday, with pollution levels surging to over 50 times the World Health Organization's recommended daily limit. Residents of the sprawling city of over 30 million grappled with choking air, as monitoring firm IQAir reported hazardous levels of PM2.5 pollutants topping 806 micrograms per cubic meter – microparticles that pose severe risks as they can enter the bloodstream through the lungs. Many in the city cannot afford air filters or create sealed indoor spaces to protect themselves, and the smog has led to delayed flights, with visibility dropping below 500 meters in Delhi and even lower at 18 airports across northern India. The hazardous air is attributed to a range of factors, including agricultural stubble burning i...