USA tops list of highest risk countries for absolute natural disaster economic losses

Maplecroft has produced a new series of global maps of natural disaster risk for 2009, mapping the risk to human development and economic activity in 208 countries. The maps and risk indices are designed to support efforts to mitigate the effects that climate change and natural disasters can have on communities as well as economic activity. Four sets of maps explore:

1) All natural disasters;
2) Hydro-meteorological disasters;
3) Geophysical disasters and
4) Economic losses due to natural disasters.

Each map uses a unique index to measure disaster risk in each country. The maps are supported with background explanation and comprehensive analysis as well as discussion of how business can engage in natural disaster preparedness and response, supported by case studies of business engagement.

Top 10 highest risk countries for absolute natural disaster economic losses:

1. USA
2. China
3. Japan
4. Italy
5. India
6. Germany
7. France
8. United Kingdom
9. Mexico
10. Turkey

Top 10 countries with high hydro-meteorological disaster risk:
1. Bangladesh
2. Sudan
3. Mozambique
4. Niue
5. Haiti
6. Honduras
7. Djibouti
8. Philippines
9. Vanuatu
10. Antigua & Barbuda

For more information contact:
Jason McGeown or Ed Cole at +44 (0) 1225 420000 info@maplecroft.com