Disaster hazards to island populations

An UNCTAD study of natural disasters (earthquakes, tropical cyclones and floods) mainly between 1977 and 1981 showed that in 11 cases out of 54, over 5% of the population of the island country affected was made homeless. Of these 11 cases, eight were island developing countries. Similarly, damage as a percentage of GNP could be estimated in 38 cases. In nine cases it was over 5% and, of these, eight were island developing countries.

1. Natural disasters

1. Hurricanes

1. Vulnerability of island developing countries and territories
2. Inadequate early warning of disasters

1. Uncontrolled costs of disaster relief
2. Inadequate transport systems for isolated islands
3. Inadequate international crisis management
4. Global warming
5. Detrimental changes in ocean characteristics

1. Reducing impact of natural disasters
2. Protecting island populations
3. Protecting against disasters
4. Adapting to climate change

1. Hazard
2. Disaster