Category Archives: Europe

The Heat Didn’t Kill Them. The Gap in Their Preparation Did.

I once stood in a flooded industrial park in Thailand listening to managers say, “We never expected the water to reach here.” I heard the same disbelief, decades later, in a report about a family in Lyon, France, whose apartment had quietly turned into an oven. An 84-year-old grandmother with dementia. A husband on medication that made the heat more dangerous than he realized. A son next door who still couldn’t reach them in time. Outside, 42°C. Inside, 38°C by mid-afternoon. Nobody saw it coming, even though everybody did.

This is the story of Europe’s 2025 heatwave, one of the deadliest on record. But the real story isn’t about heat at all — it’s about gaps, between a warning and an action, between living next door and actually being ready. After twenty years studying disasters, I’ve come to believe those gaps are the most dangerous part of any catastrophe.

When and Where: A Disaster Written in the Sky

From April through September 2025, a “heat dome” — a stubborn zone of high pressure — parked itself over western and southern Europe, trapping warm air and blocking nighttime relief. Climatologists now call it the sixth-deadliest heatwave in recorded world history. The western Mediterranean recorded its highest-ever sea-surface temperature anomaly for any month, part of why nights in Spain, France, and Italy stayed brutally warm.

Researchers from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Imperial College London found that human-caused climate change directly caused most of the summer’s excess heat deaths in European cities. That same summer, the International Court of Justice ruled that access to a safe, healthy environment is an enforceable human right. This was never just weather — it was natural, political, and social at once. The real question is why people died in cities with working alert systems and open hospitals. That’s not a meteorology question. It’s a household one.

Who: The Household Is Where Disasters Are Won or Lost

In my own research on Japan’s 2011 tsunami, I learned that a disaster’s outcome is rarely decided by the hazard alone — it’s decided by conditions already sitting inside people’s homes long before disaster strikes. The Lyon family is almost a textbook case.

Picture a fourth-floor apartment in a 19th-century stone building, built to hold heat through cold winters, with no elevator and no air conditioning. Inside: a grandmother who could no longer reliably feel thirst, a daughter on blood pressure medication, a husband on diuretics that quietly worsen dehydration, and a son next door with no formal plan to check on them. None of these facts alone sounds like tragedy. Together, they form a vulnerability map that fits millions of households across Europe.

Three details struck me. Beta-blockers and diuretics are among Europe’s most prescribed drugs, and both impair the body’s ability to cool itself — yet a simple spring conversation with a doctor about this almost never happens. The old stone buildings so many Europeans love were built to keep heat in, not let it out. And proximity isn’t preparedness: the son lived right next door, yet there was no agreed check-in time, nothing written down. Closeness gave a false sense of security that quietly replaced real planning.

Why It Mattered: When Public Help Is There But Not Reachable

I often use a framework from Japanese disaster studies: jijo, kyojo, kojo — self-help, mutual help, and public help. The 2025 heatwave shows this triangle breaking down in a very human way. Public help was technically present: France issued top-level heat alerts, Lyon activated its heat plan, hospitals stayed open. But “present” and “reachable” turned out to be different things — doctors’ phone lines were jammed for three hours, and emergency rooms were overwhelmed within 48 hours. This is the typical failure mode of any major disaster: public systems work as designed, until everyone needs them at once.

That’s exactly why self-help and mutual-help have to be strong enough to fill the gap — and here, they weren’t, at least not at first. No pre-season heat check on the apartment, no rehydration salts on hand, no registration with the city’s vulnerable-persons registry. What ultimately helped wasn’t a government plan; it was a neighbor who lent her portable air conditioner. Real mutual-help, but it shouldn’t have to depend on luck.

How: What Forensic Investigation Reveals

Looking at this through a forensic lens — tracing root causes instead of settling for the obvious explanation — three things stand out. Heat is an invisible disaster: no flooding water, no shaking ground, no siren, so by the time a family notices something is wrong, hours may have passed. Caregiver exhaustion rarely makes the statistics, yet it’s real — one woman here carried nearly all the caregiving alone for five straight days. And an aging population isn’t just background information; it’s a measurable, foreseeable source of future risk, especially in buildings never built for a hotter world.

What strikes me most: everything this family eventually did — buying a portable air conditioner, setting up twice-daily check-ins, reviewing medications, installing reflective window film — could have happened months earlier, for a fraction of the cost of the crisis it prevented.

Why This Matters to You

I’ve spent much of my career arguing that a disaster’s outcome is shaped less by the hazard itself than by the choices made before it arrives. The 2025 heatwave is one more piece of evidence for that. The heat dome was driven by decades of emissions, beyond any one family’s control. But how that family responded was shaped by choices about medications, buildings, and communication made months earlier — the kind of choices any reader in their twenties, thirties, or beyond can make for an aging parent, a neighbor, or themselves.

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction argues resilience is built from the household upward, not handed down from policy alone. I believe that completely. The gap between the alert that reached a phone and the hospital bed that followed wasn’t a failure of warning — it was a failure of preparation. Unlike the climate itself, that gap is one we can close, starting at home, before the next heat dome forms.

Source: When the Heat Dome Becomes a Death Trap: Social Lessons from Europe’s 2025 “Bloody” Heatwave — disasterresearchnotes.site, drawing on the World Meteorological Organization, Copernicus Climate Change Service, LSHTM/Imperial College London, and the International Court of Justice’s 2025 advisory opinion.

Why Your Culture May Determine Whether You Survive a Disaster

When disaster strikes, we tend to focus on the storm, the flood, or the earthquake itself. But after two decades of fieldwork across Southeast Asia and Japan, I keep coming back to something less visible — and just as powerful: the culture, institutions, and social structures of the communities involved shape survival just as much as the disaster itself.

It’s Not Just About the Disaster

Sociologist Benjamin F. McLuckie compared disaster responses across Japan, Italy, and the United States as far back as the 1970s. His key finding: how centralized a government is — how much decision-making power sits with national versus local authorities — significantly shapes what actually happens on the ground when emergencies unfold.

But culture alone does not explain everything. What really drives outcomes is a three-way mix of culture, institutions, and technology. A community that values collective action still needs neighborhood associations, shelters, and early warning systems to turn that value into real protection. Without those structures, values remain just values.

What I Found in the Field

My work on the 2011 Thailand floods — which disrupted global supply chains and devastated communities around industrial parks — brought this home clearly. Social cohesion and local governance structures were just as predictive of recovery as physical flood barriers. Through the Japan-Thailand SATREPS collaboration, my colleagues and I developed community capacity assessments and social vulnerability indices to help local leaders act before the next disaster, not scramble after it.

What struck me most was this: communities with strong internal networks recovered faster, not because they had more resources, but because they already knew how to work together.

The New Orleans Lesson

After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, researchers noticed that Vietnamese-American communities in New Orleans recovered more quickly than many others. The easy explanation was “culture.” But the real answer was more grounded: strong churches functioning as organizing hubs, dense social networks built through shared migration experience, and established community leadership capable of coordinating a return. Culture mattered — but it worked through concrete institutions. That distinction is important.

Why This Matters Now

Climate change is making disasters more frequent and more severe. Yet many governments still treat disaster response as a purely technical problem — better seawalls, faster alert systems. Those matters. But they miss the human layer that makes those tools actually work.

When we recognize that community trust, family networks, and local governance are all part of the disaster equation, we can design better evacuation plans, more effective early warnings, and recovery programs that genuinely reach the people who need them most.

Every disaster holds up a mirror to the society it strikes. What we see reflected — who gets help quickly, who rebuilds together, who gets left behind — is shaped by culture, institutions, and history working in combination. That is not just a scholarly observation. It is, ultimately, a matter of life and death.

Sources:

McLuckie, B.F. (1977). Italy, Japan, and the United States: Effects of Centralization on Disaster Responses. University of Delaware;

Nakasu, T. et al. (2022). International Journal of Disaster Resilience and Built Environment. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJDRBE-10-2020-0107;

Nakasu, T. (2023). Environmental Development and Sustainability. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10668-023-04305-7

【Updated : Disaster Links Library launched (website)】

Disaster Link Library

Day_138 : Natural Disasters in Europe (1)

Natural disasters in Europe mainly consist of hydrological, meteorological, climatological, earthquake and volcano eruption disasters.

Figure The Europe

Earthquake disasters mainly occur in the Aegean Sea, the south-western coast of Balkan Peninsula, and the southern part of Italy. Volcanoes are active in the central and southern parts of Italy, the southern Aegean Sea, and Iceland area.

Netherlands and England can be highlighted. The Netherlands had storm surges in 1530 and 1570. The death tolls were approximately 400,000 (1530) and 70,000 (1570) for each. The 1953 depression took an 1800-person death toll. This disaster also reached England. England’s disasters were the 1703 Thames river flood and the 2003 Heatwave. The temperature was 8–10 over the average year in August 2003.

With regard to earthquake disasters, Italy, Greece, and Portugal are the main countries to be affected.

The following past article explains the recent earthquake cases in Italy.

To be continued…

Day_195 : Scientists and Disaster Management Controversy issues with a L’Aquila Earthquake Case

The L’Aquila earthquake, which struck the Abruzzo region of Italy on April 6, 2009, was a significant case study for both scientists and disaster risk management professionals for several reasons. With a magnitude of 6.3, this earthquake caused extensive damage to the medieval city of L’Aquila, resulting in the deaths of more than 300 people, injuring over a thousand, and leaving tens of thousands of people homeless. Beyond the immediate physical damage and tragic loss of life, the L’Aquila earthquake raised important issues related to earthquake prediction, risk communication, and the responsibilities of scientists and authorities in disaster risk management.

Scientific Aspects and Controversies

The occurrence of earthquakes sparked a controversial debate over the ability to predict earthquakes and the communication of seismic risks to the public. Before the earthquake, a series of tremors were felt in the region, leading to heightened public concern. A week before the major earthquake, a meeting of the Major Risks Committee, which included government officials and scientists, was held to assess the situation. The committee concluded that it was not possible to predict whether a stronger earthquake would occur but reassured the public, suggesting a low likelihood of a major event. Unfortunately, the devastating earthquake struck shortly thereafter.

This situation has led to significant controversy, particularly regarding the role and communication strategies of scientists and government officials in disaster risk management. Critics argued that reassurances were misleading and contributed to a false sense of security among the population.

Legal and Ethical Issues

In a highly controversial decision, six Italian scientists and one government official were initially found guilty of manslaughter in 2012 for underestimating the risks and failing to adequately warn the population. This verdict was widely criticized by the international scientific community, which argued that it was unreasonable to expect scientists to accurately predict earthquakes. The verdict was largely overturned in 2014, with the convictions of scientists being annulled and the sentence of the government official being reduced.

Disaster Risk Management Implications

The L’Aquila earthquake underscored the importance of effective disaster-risk management and communication strategies. Key lessons include:

Communication of Uncertainty: It highlighted the need for clear communication of scientific uncertainty to the public. Conveying the inherent uncertainties in earthquake prediction is crucial for helping individuals and communities make informed decisions about risk reduction and preparedness.
Public Education and Preparedness: The tragedy reinforced the need for ongoing public education on disaster preparedness and the importance of building earthquake-resilient communities.
Building Codes and Urban Planning: Ensuring strict adherence to earthquake-resistant building codes and urban planning practices is vital in reducing the vulnerability of buildings and infrastructure.
Multi-disciplinary Approach: The event demonstrated the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach that includes not only seismologists but also engineers, urban planners, emergency management professionals, and policymakers in disaster risk management planning and response.
Ethical Responsibilities: The aftermath raised questions about the ethical responsibilities of scientists and the balance between preventing public panic and ensuring preparedness.

The L’Aquila earthquake remains a case study of the complex interplay among science, policy, ethics, and public communication in the context of natural disaster risk management.

Day_175: Exploring Italy’s Struggle with Flooding and Innovative Solutions for a Safe Future Amidst Rising Waters.

Image Source: Unsplash‍

This article is prepared based on the recent flood to understand the flood management status in Italy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHgTocw3Ogs

Italy, a country renowned for its captivating aesthetics and profound cultural legacy, confronts a mounting predicament as the water levels surge, jeopardizing its architectural wonders and the routine existence of its populace. The acceleration of climate change has resulted in the nation grappling with the adverse impacts of devastating floods that cause significant damage to its scenic cities and towns. This article delves into the multifaceted challenges posed by floods in Italy, exploring the underlying complexities of the issue and highlighting creative approaches that are transforming the nation’s trajectory. Italy is making strides toward preserving its legacy for future generations by utilizing advanced technology, implementing community-based strategies, and demonstrating an unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. Embark with us on an enlightening expedition as we delve into the unyielding struggle against the advancing waters and commemorate the achievements of human innovation and resilience in the midst of hardship.

The Impact of Climate Change on Italy’s Flood Risks

The phenomenon of climate change has had a significant impact on the global environment, including Italy. The escalation of global temperatures has resulted in an augmented peril of floods within the nation, which could potentially culminate in disastrous results. The increase in temperature has been found to have a significant impact on the melting of glaciers in the Alps. This phenomenon has been observed to result in a rise in sea levels and an increase in the volume of water in rivers and lakes. The excess of water increases the susceptibility to floods, especially in the coastal regions of Italy that are situated at lower elevations.

Furthermore, the phenomenon of climate change has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather occurrences, including but not limited to heavy precipitation and storms. The occurrence of heavy rainfall can result in the inundation of drainage systems and the emergence of flash floods, which pose a significant threat to urban regions. The impact of climate change on flood risks in Italy is a critical issue that requires comprehensive understanding and innovative solutions to be tackled.

Italy has exhibited a resolute dedication to mitigating its flood hazards, despite the adversities presented by climate change. In recent decades, the nation has made noteworthy progress in comprehending the origins and consequences of floods, while also executing effective measures for prevention and reduction. The forthcoming sections will examine the historical occurrences of floods in Italy, the underlying factors that contribute to its susceptibility to flooding, and the pioneering measures that are shaping a more secure and robust future.

Historical Floods in Italy: Lessons Learned and Progress Made

Italy boasts a rich historical record of disastrous floods that have inflicted enduring damage upon its terrain and populace. In 1966, the Arno River in Florence experienced a catastrophic flood that resulted in the loss of over 100 lives and extensive damage to numerous works of art and cultural artifacts. This event has become widely recognized as one of the most infamous floods in history. The aforementioned calamitous incident acted as a stimulus for the country and instigated a revitalized emphasis on flood prevention and readiness.

Subsequent to the Florence flood, Italy encountered a multitude of consequential flood occurrences. The Piedmont region experienced a catastrophic flood in 1994, resulting in extensive devastation and loss of human lives. In 2011, Genoa experienced a flash flood that resulted in the loss of six lives and significant harm to infrastructure. The aforementioned calamitous incidents have underscored the necessity for effective flood management strategies, prompting the Italian authorities to allocate resources towards scholarly inquiry, enhancements in infrastructure, and pioneering approaches aimed at mitigating the hazards associated with flooding.

Italy has achieved significant advancements in comprehending its flood hazards and executing strategies to avert and reduce their consequences, owing to these endeavors. The nation has implemented advanced flood forecasting and early warning mechanisms to furnish prior intimation of potential flood incidents, thereby empowering communities to make adequate preparations and respond with greater efficacy. Moreover, Italy has made significant investments in enhancing its infrastructure, including the development of dams, levees, and drainage systems, with the aim of providing greater protection to regions that are susceptible to flooding. Despite notable advancements, there remains a substantial amount of work to be undertaken in order to guarantee the safety and fortitude of Italy’s populace in light of the escalating threat of flooding.

Factors Contributing to Italy’s Flood Vulnerability

Italy’s susceptibility to floods can be attributed to a combination of factors, such as its distinctive geography, urbanization, and land-use practices. The nation’s vast expanse of coastal areas and multiple waterways provide it especially vulnerable to inundation caused by both coastal storms and riverine deluges. Furthermore, the topography of Italy is distinguished by steep mountainous regions and narrow valleys, which can intensify the probability of flooding by directing water towards densely inhabited regions and enhancing the possibility of landslides.

The surge in urbanization and alterations in land use has been instrumental in enhancing Italy’s susceptibility to flooding. The expansion of urban areas results in the replacement of natural landscapes with impervious surfaces, such as buildings, roads, and parking lots, that hinder the infiltration of water into the ground. Consequently, there is a rise in surface runoff and an enhanced susceptibility to flooding in the occurrence of intense precipitation episodes. Moreover, the development of infrastructure in regions susceptible to flooding has increased the vulnerability of both individuals and resources, thereby exacerbating the potential consequences of a flood occurrence.

Italy’s susceptibility to floods can also be attributed to insufficient maintenance of flood defense infrastructure, including levees, dams, and drainage systems. Insufficient investment in maintenance and aging infrastructure can result in the failure of crucial systems during critical times, thereby endangering lives and property. It is imperative to consider these factors in order to mitigate flood hazards in Italy and establish a future that is more resilient.

Innovative Flood Management Solutions in Italy

Italy has adopted a multifaceted approach to address the intricate issues posed by flooding, which integrates conventional flood protection strategies with state-of-the-art technology and environmentally conscious methodologies. The proposed solutions endeavor to mitigate the underlying factors that contribute to susceptibility to flooding, while simultaneously advocating for ecological sustainability and adaptability.

The implementation of green infrastructure within urban environments represents a viable strategy. Green infrastructure applies to the utilization of natural or semi-natural mechanisms, such as green roofs, parks, and permeable pavements, for the purpose of effectively handling stormwater and mitigating the likelihood of flooding. The aforementioned characteristics not only facilitate the assimilation and absorption of surplus water but also result in dramatic ecological and communal advantages, including reduced atmospheric conditions, diminished urban heat island consequences, and enhanced biodiversity.

An additional inventive approach involves the adoption of flexible and adaptable flood control tactics that can adapt to fluctuating circumstances and ambiguities. The MOSE project, a system of mobile barriers, has been developed by the city of Venice to safeguard the city from the negative impacts of rising sea levels and storm surges. The barriers possess the capacity to be adjusted in accordance with the varying flood risks, thereby facilitating a flexible approach while mitigating the adverse effects on the city’s fragile ecosystem and heritage edifices.

Urban Planning and Design for Flood Resilience

Apart from pioneering flood management strategies, Italy has acknowledged the significance of urban planning and design in advancing flood resilience. The incorporation of flood risk assessments into the planning and development process can enhance the resilience of urban and rural areas to floods and facilitate their adaptation to the dynamic climate.

The identification and preservation of natural floodplains is a crucial element in urban planning strategies aimed at enhancing flood resilience. The aforementioned regions, which exhibit susceptibility to inundation in the event of heavy precipitation, play a pivotal role in affording storage and absorption capacity for surplus water. Through the preservation of these regions and the imposition of development restrictions within them, communities can mitigate their exposure to flood hazards while simultaneously safeguarding crucial ecosystem services and habitats for wildlife.

Another important consideration is the integration of flood risk management into the design of buildings and infrastructure. Potential strategies for mitigating flood risks may involve implementing techniques such as raising structures to exceed projected flood levels, utilizing materials and construction methods that are resistant to flooding, and creating adaptable spaces that can serve a variety of purposes, such as temporary flood storage or evacuation facilities. Through the integration of these design principles, communities have the ability to mitigate the potential adverse impacts and disturbances resulting from flooding while simultaneously strengthening their overall capacity for resilience.

The Role of Nature-Based Solutions in Flood Mitigation

In contemporary times, there has been a growing interest in nature-based solutions (NBS) as a practical and economical strategy for mitigating floods. The aforementioned solutions utilize natural processes and ecosystems to mitigate flood hazards through restoration, preservation, or enhancement. Instances of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) encompass the rehabilitation of wetlands and floodplains, afforestation of slopes, and establishment of green areas in urban settings.

Several NBS (Nature-Based Solutions) initiatives have been successfully executed in Italy, exhibiting encouraging outcomes. The “Life-Envi-Med” initiative, located in the Sardinia region, aims to mitigate flood hazards and foster biodiversity by rehabilitating and safeguarding coastal dunes and wetlands. An additional instance is the “Vallevecchia” initiative located in the Veneto region, with the objective of rehabilitating prior farmland to establish a natural barrier area that can assimilate floodwaters and offer significant habitat for fauna.

Through the implementation of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), Italy is able to mitigate the potential hazards of flooding while simultaneously demonstrating its dedication to the principles of ecological sustainability and the preservation of biodiversity. Moreover, Natural Based Solutions (NBS) frequently offer supplementary advantages, such as improved water quality, heightened recreational possibilities, and enhanced climate change adaptability, rendering them a valuable constituent of Italy’s comprehensive flood management approach.

Technological Advancements in Flood Forecasting and Early Warning Systems

The utilization of technology is of utmost importance in Italy’s endeavors to effectively mitigate flood hazards and strengthen its capacity to adapt to adverse circumstances. The implementation of flood forecasting and early warning systems has played a crucial role in mitigating the adverse effects of floods on both human settlements and physical infrastructure.

The National Early Warning System for Hydrogeological and Hydraulic Risks (SINIFF) is a noteworthy instance of technological advancement, which was established through a joint venture between the National Civil Protection Department of Italy and the regional environmental protection agencies. SINIFF integrates contemporaneous data from monitoring stations with sophisticated hydrological and meteorological models to furnish prompt and precise flood prognostications and notifications. The aforementioned data empowers regional governing bodies and first responders to adopt preemptive measures aimed at safeguarding human lives and assets, including but not limited to the evacuation of inhabitants, road closures, and fortification of flood barriers.

Apart from SINIFF, various early warning systems at regional and local levels have been formulated to cater to distinct flood hazards and susceptibilities. The Piedmont region has incorporated a sophisticated flood prediction system that integrates current information from river monitoring stations, weather radar data, and hydrological models to predict potential flood occurrences. Through the utilization of technological advancements, Italy can enhance its ability to forecast and address flood hazards, leading to a reduction in the adverse impact on both human life and economic resources caused by such disasters.

Community Engagement and Collaboration in Italy’s Flood Management

Effectively addressing the complex problems related to flood management necessitates the involvement and cooperation of various entities, such as government agencies, scholars, enterprises, and nearby populations. Italy has adopted a participatory strategy for flood management, prioritizing the involvement of all pertinent stakeholders in the decision-making process and promoting a collective sense of accountability for mitigating flood risks.

An instance of community involvement in flood management is the formation of regional flood committees, which convene delegates from diverse sectors to formulate and execute strategies for managing flood risks. The aforementioned committees serve as a platform for various stakeholders to exchange information, collaborate on initiatives, and devise novel approaches to address flood-related issues at the local level.

Additionally, Italy has acknowledged the significance of public education and awareness in advancing flood resilience. The National Flood Awareness Campaign is an endeavor that seeks to disseminate knowledge and provide instruction to individuals regarding the hazards of flooding and the actions they can undertake to safeguard themselves and their localities. Italy is fostering a culture of resilience and enhancing its capacity to adapt to the evolving climate by equipping individuals and communities with knowledge and skills.

The implementation of collaborative efforts and partnerships is deemed essential in Italy’s flood management endeavors. The nation has forged collaborations with global organizations, such as the European Union, to exchange knowledge and proficiency and acquire financial resources for inundation control initiatives. Furthermore, Italy has engaged in cooperative efforts with its adjacent nations, including France and Switzerland, to tackle the issue of cross-border flood hazards and establish collective flood control strategies.

It is imperative that Italy takes measures to enhance its flood management capabilities to safeguard its future.

The current situation in Italy highlights the necessity for a holistic and cohesive strategy toward flood control and mitigation. Italy can enhance its flood risk mitigation strategies by integrating traditional flood defense measures with innovative methods such as green infrastructure, adaptive flood management, and nature-based solutions, thereby fostering ecological sustainability and resilience.

In addition, it is imperative that Italy involves all pertinent parties such as governmental entities, scholars, enterprises, and nearby communities in the process of making decisions and cultivates a mindset of fortitude and cooperation. Through collaborative efforts, Italy has the potential to construct a more secure and durable future for its populace while safeguarding its cultural legacy for future generations.

Italy’s ability to overcome challenges related to climate change and flooding is noteworthy, given its history of resilience and innovation, which serves as a source of inspiration and optimism. Italy is able to overcome these challenges and establish a more sustainable future by persisting in its investment in flood management strategies and adopting innovative ideas and technologies.

Day_162: Disaster Links Library

As mentioned below, the Disaster Links Library has been created. The first draft is attached to this menu as “Disaster Links Library”. There are still many challenges ahead, however, the page will be completed step by step with adding more info.

If you have some excellent links, please let me know.

https://disasterresearchnotes.site/archives/3793

Day_148: The World Largest Disaster Links

Below is the disaster links site, which was created a long time ago. I will renew this site step-by-step. In addition, some are still only in Japanese, and original disaster-related pictures are omitted, so I will also consider these.

http://disasters.weblike.jp/linklibrary.html

The below disaster-related world organization’s link site is the one that was built when I was working at NIED DIL and is still working as one of the products there. I am very happy to know that, but I would also like to renew this to contribute to the institute with my gratitude in the near future, I hope.

https://dil.bosai.go.jp/link/world/english/index.html

Day_140 : Natural Disasters in Europe (2) Vajont Dam Collapse

Figure The Europe

Concerning hydrological, meteorological, and climatological disasters, heavy rain and storm disasters are caused by low pressure in the Icelandic area developed in the winter season. A cold atmospheric current coming from Arctic gains a warmer vapor stream from the Gulf Stream and develops a strong atmospheric depression in the area. This causes the strong winds and high tidal waves along the coastal areas of the North Sea. Netherlands and England can be highlighted. The Netherlands had storm surges in 1530 and 1570. The death tolls were approximately 400,000 (1530) and 70,000 (1570) for each. The 1953 depression took 1800 deaths. This disaster also reached England. England’s disasters were the 1703 Thames river flood and the 2003 Heatwave. The temperature was 8–10 over an average year in August 2003 (Day 38).

Danube, Elbe, Rhine, and Seine rivers are on a gentle slope, causing slow inundations caused by heavy rains. On August 2, 2002, Central Europe had heavy rain, which caused the Danube and Elbe rivers to overflow in Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary. The death toll is approximately 100; the number of people affected is over 100,000. Historical buildings in the city, such as Prague,Dresden, and so on, along the rivers, were also inundated.

The Alps have had landslides, debris flows, slope failures, and so on. The particular example is the landslide in the Dolomites, North Italy, in 1963. Overflows from Vajont dam caused by a large-scale landslide attacked the village in downstream areas. The death toll is approximately 2600.

A brief explanation

An interview-based explanation

On August 2003, West Europe had 8–10 degrees celsius higher than the average. This heat wave killed 15000 in France, 7000 in Germany, 4000 in Spain, 4000 in Italy, and so on, for a total of 35000.

In summer 2010, Russia had a heat wave and this makes wildfire. The wildfire was spread out and it took over 1.5 months to extinguish.Many villages were destroyed by the fire. Moscow was covered by harmful smoke. Over 55,000 people were killed by the heat wave and the smoke in Russia.