UN reports Asia as the region most severely impacted by climate and weather disasters in 2023

Asia was the world’s most disaster-hit region from climate and weather hazards in 2023, according to a report by the United Nations. The report highlighted that floods and storms were the chief cause of casualties and economic losses in the region.

Global temperatures hit record highs last year, with Asia warming at a particularly rapid pace. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) stated that the impact of heatwaves in Asia was becoming more severe, with melting glaciers posing a threat to the region’s future water security.

The report also emphasized that Asia was warming faster than the global average, with temperatures nearly two degrees Celsius above the 1961 to 1990 average. WMO chief Celeste Saulo expressed concern over the findings, stating that many countries in the region experienced their hottest year on record in 2023.

The State of the Climate in Asia 2023 report highlighted the accelerating rate of key climate change indicators such as surface temperature, glacier retreat, and sea level rise. The report warned that these changes would have serious repercussions for societies, economies, and ecosystems in the region.

In 2023, Asia experienced 79 disasters associated with water-related weather hazards, with floods and storms accounting for more than 80 percent of the events. The report stressed the urgent need for national weather services in the region to improve tailored information to reduce disaster risks.

WMO chief Saulo emphasized the necessity of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the evolving climate, stating that it is not merely an option but a fundamental necessity in the face of the climate crisis.