My Publications

THE ECONOMIC COSTS OF CLIMATE DISASTERS: ANALYZING DATA FROM RECENT FLOODS, WILDFIRES, AND HURRICANES

Izuchukwu Precious Obani, Zino Izu Obani, Prof Frank Chudi Anaeto, Theresa Ojevwe Akroh,
2025-03-10
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Climate disasters, including floods, wildfires, and hurricanes, have imposed significant economic costs on governments, businesses, and communities worldwide. As the frequency and intensity of these disasters escalate due to climate change, there is an urgent need for data-driven economic analysis to assess their financial impact and inform policy responses. This study examines the direct and indirect economic costs of climate-related disasters, drawing from recent case studies across different regions.

Using a mixed-method approach, this research integrates economic data from disaster response agencies, insurance reports, and government assessments to evaluate the financial burdens of climate disasters. The findings indicate that flooding results in infrastructure damage and economic displacement, wildfires disrupt agriculture, tourism, and air quality, and hurricanes lead to massive property losses and long-term GDP reductions. Additionally, the study highlights the hidden costs of climate disasters, such as supply chain disruptions, public health crises, and loss of biodiversity.

The research underscores the urgent need for enhanced climate resilience investments, improved disaster risk management, and stronger financial protection mechanisms such as climate insurance and sustainable infrastructure development. By analyzing historical economic losses and policy responses, this study provides strategic recommendations for mitigating financial risks and strengthening global economic resilience against climate-induced disasters. These insights will be valuable for policymakers, economists, and environmental planners in designing data-driven climate adaptation strategies.