2024 trending to be the worst year of disasters ever recorded

The onset of 2024 witnessed a tumultuous beginning, with global celebrations overshadowed by crises:

1. Airstrikes in Gaza: The region experienced heightened tensions due to rocket launches from Gaza toward Israel, leading to retaliatory strikes and worsening the humanitarian crisis.
2. Ukraine’s Conflict Escalation: Authorities successfully thwarted numerous Russian drones, fueling fears amid escalating conflicts with Russian forces. President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed a forceful reply, while Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at escalated offensives, heightening concerns of a spiraling situation.
3. Japan’s Devastating Earthquake: Japan grappled with the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake, painting a turbulent opening to the year.

Disaster projections for 2024 can be informed by analyzing past disaster occurrences and their impacts in various regions. Historical data shows a significant reduction in disaster deaths due to advancements in earlier prediction and more resilient infrastructure. However, since 2022, the trend of high-cost disasters has increased, with approximately 85% of all disaster-related costs amounting to $2.475 trillion out of $2.850 trillion. To accurately project disasters for 2024, it is crucial to analyze these past occurrences and their impacts.

However, since the year launched with New Year’s fireworks, the world found itself embarking on 2024 amidst complex challenges, from global war to ever-increasing extreme weather-driven disasters.