Japan is widely recognized for its extensive disaster preparedness efforts, particularly in managing earthquakes. The country has developed a comprehensive approach that includes strict building codes to make structures earthquake-resistant, extensive public education campaigns, and early warning systems.

Growing up in Japan, earthquake drills were a regular part of life. We learned simple but crucial steps: cover your head with a cushion, take shelter under a sturdy table, and move calmly to a safe space. These small acts of preparedness – like not sleeping near shelves or placing heavy items on them – helped us feel ready. It was common practice, especially among the older generation, to follow these rules and keep emergency bags packed, ready to grab if disaster struck.

However, my experience volunteering after the Great Hanshin Earthquake in January, 1995 (7 magnitude) revealed that impact varies in different communities. The more vulnerable and poorer get the hardest hit. Living in less protected houses, with no or little savings, many lost everything. Some neighborhoods, by contrast, were better equipped to withstand the disaster.

As climate change intensifies, one of the greatest challenges we face is ensuring the safety and resilience of communities. In Uzbekistan, rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns have led to an increase in natural disasters, including floods, droughts, and mudflows. 

According to the Agency for Hydrometeorological Service (Uzhydromet), these events are becoming more frequent and severe, posing a growing threat to both the population and the economy. On average, in Uzbekistan natural disasters affect 1.4 million people annually and cause nearly $3 billion in damage. A severe flood could cost the economy up to 5% of GDP, with similar consequences expected from a major drought. Climate change is expected to worsen these impacts, making it critical for every resident to be prepared.

To address these challenges, the Government of Uzbekistan has made climate adaptation a national priority. In collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, the Government of Uzbekistan has been developing a comprehensive Early Warning System (EWS) that provides timely and accurate information about potential hazards, enabling communities to take emergency measures to mitigate disaster risks. The goal is to “Substantially increase the availability of and access to multi-hazard EWS and disaster risk information and assessments to the people by 2030.”