FLOODS AROUND THE WORLD IN 2024

Abstract

In 2024, 200 major flood events were recorded worldwide, in addition to considerably more smaller, localized events. In total, at least 6,910 people died in floods, down from 13,972 in 2023. Floods were among the most devastating natural disasters of the year, both in terms of the number of victims and the economic damage, which was estimated to amount to at least €84 billion. The floods in Valencia, Spain, caused the most damage (around €16 billion). Most of the flooding occurred in South America, with the highest number of events recorded in Columbia, and in Indonesia. The main causes of flooding were heavy rainfall, monsoons and tropical cyclones, and in some cases dam bursts. Climate change is increasing the frequency of extraordinary rainstorm floods, flash floods, landslides, and even sea floods due to sea level rise, further increasing the risk to people and the environment.