Environment

New Delhi: The increasing frequency of extreme weather events worldwide has exposed critical resilience gaps as disasters now often strike in combination rather than in isolation. Scientists and climate experts warn that compound events where two or more hazards such as heatwaves and floods occur simultaneously or in rapid succession are becoming more common leading to heightened destruction and economic strain In 2022, Pakistan endured a record-breaking heatwave, swiftly followed by catastrophic monsoon rains. The extreme heat dried out the soil, reducing its ability to absorb water, which amplified flooding that submerged nearly a third of the country and displaced over 33 million people. The aftermath saw widespread disease outbreaks and a staggering $30 billion in economic losses, d...