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Introduction
Due to its location and variable climatic conditions, Nepal is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Climate change and an increasing population further exacerbate the impacts of natural hazards, which each year cause heavy loss of life and damage to property. The European Union continuously supports initiatives that reduce the risks of natural hazards and improve the disaster preparedness capacities of vulnerable populations. In addition, the EU finances the provision of urgent services such as emergency shelter, healthcare, and water and sanitation.
What are the needs?
Every year, during the monsoon season, landslides and floods kill hundreds of people in Nepal. The potential threat of earthquakes, glacial lake outbursts, avalanches, and cold and heat waves always looms large.
According to the United Nations, Nepal is the 11th most vulnerable country to earthquakes in the world and Kathmandu, the capital, is the most at-risk city.
A changing climate also leads to a rise in the frequency and intensity of natural hazards, such as flash floods and landslides. This adds to the people’s burdens, especially for those who are already vulnerable and ill-equipped to cope with disasters.