UN Warns of a 40% Increase in Global Disasters by 2030 Due to Climate Change and Underestimated Risks

Original article: ONU: Número de desastres en el Mundo aumentará 40% entre 2015 y 2030 «como consecuencia del cambio climático y la subestimación de los riesgos»

UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his solidarity with the victims of the recent tragedy in Nepal, a region that has «already suffered repeatedly from the effects of deadly natural events.»

In this context, Guterres reminded that the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) estimates the world could face 560 disasters of medium to high magnitude each year by 2030.

«The number of disasters globally is projected to increase by 40% between 2015 and 2030, as a result of climate change and a systematic underestimation of risks,» warned the organization.

Regarding the situation in Nepal, Tom Fletcher, head of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs for Relief Operations, announced that the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) has released an initial allocation of $2 million for medical care, shelter, and water assistance.

«The consequences are especially severe for children: according to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), at least 17,000 children have been affected in Nepal. In flooded areas, families have lost their homes, access to water, and healthcare,» stated the international organization. Read the full report HERE.

We will continue to provide updates. Cover photo: EFE Agency