News: The Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025 report highlighted that India registered at least 80,000 fatalities and nearly $180 billion in economic losses (inflation-adjusted) due to climate change-induced extreme weather events between 1993 and 2023.
About Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2025
- The Climate Risk Index (CRI) is an annual report published by the environmental organization Germanwatch.
- It evaluates the impact of extreme weather events globally and ranks countries based on their vulnerability to climate-related disasters.
- Aim: The CRI aims to highlight countries that are most affected by extreme weather and emphasize the need for stronger climate policies and disaster preparedness.
Key Findings from CRI 2025 Report on India
1. Fatalities and Economic Impact: At least 80,000 people died due to extreme weather events. India suffered $180 billion in losses (inflation-adjusted)
2. India’s Global Standing: India ranked 6th globally among nations worst hit by climate disasters. India accounted for 10% of global fatalities from extreme weather events. India contributed 4.2% of global economic losses.
3. Frequency of Extreme Weather Events: India faced more than 400 extreme weather events from 1993 to 2023. These events impacted 4.6 crore (46 million) people.
4. Major Types of Extreme Weather in India:
- Heat Waves: Extremely high temperatures, often touching 50°C, especially in 1998, 2002, 2003, and 2015.
- Floods and Landslides: Recurring floods and landslides led to mass displacement and damage to agriculture.
- Cyclones: Coastal regions were severely affected by destructive cyclones such as 1998 Gujarat Cyclone, 1999 Odisha Super Cyclone, Cyclone Hudhud (2014) and Cyclone Amphan (2020)
5. Climate Change as a Key Driver: Climate change made extreme heat 30 times more likely in India. Global warming is intensifying these events, making floods, heatwaves, and cyclones more frequent and severe.
6. Social and Economic Consequences: Floods and droughts force rural populations to migrate to cities. Farmers suffer crop damage, leading to financial stress and food shortages.
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