Multihazard Risk Atlas of Maldives: Unraveling the Threats Facing This Island Nation

Nestled in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking underwater world. However, this idyllic archipelago faces a complex web of natural hazards and climate change impacts that threaten its delicate ecosystem and sustainable development.

Multihazard Risk Atlas of Maldives: Summary—Volume V

by Asian Development Bank

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	117250 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	161 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Hardcover	:	142 pages
Item Weight	:	13.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.38 x 9.21 inches

FREE

Recognizing the urgent need to assess and manage these risks, the Government of Maldives, in collaboration with the World Bank and other partners, embarked on the ambitious project of developing the Multihazard Risk Atlas of Maldives (MRAM). This groundbreaking publication serves as a comprehensive repository of knowledge, providing a detailed analysis of the risks facing the Maldives and offering invaluable insights for informed decision-making.

Multifaceted Hazards: A Complex Risk Landscape

The MRAM provides a thorough examination of the natural hazards that pose significant risks to the Maldives. These hazards include:

• Coastal Erosion: The Maldives is particularly vulnerable to coastal erosion due to its low-lying topography and extensive coastline. Rising sea levels and increasingly intense storms exacerbate this threat, posing risks to infrastructure, tourism, and coastal communities.
• Sea Level Rise: Climate change is driving sea level rise, which poses a dire threat to the Maldives. As sea levels rise, the risk of coastal flooding, salinization of freshwater resources, and displacement of coastal populations increases.
• Tsunamis: The Maldives lies within the Indian Ocean Tsunami Hazard Zone and has experienced several devastating tsunami events in the past. These powerful waves can cause widespread destruction and loss of life, posing a significant risk to the archipelago.
• Earthquakes: Although the Maldives is not located on a major earthquake fault line, it is still exposed to seismic activity. Earthquakes can trigger tsunamis and cause structural damage, particularly to buildings and infrastructure.
• Tropical Cyclones: Tropical cyclones, also known as hurricanes or typhoons, are a major hazard for the Maldives. These storms bring high winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges that can cause significant damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and coastal ecosystems.
• Floods: Heavy rainfall associated with tropical cyclones or monsoons can lead to flooding in the Maldives, particularly in low-lying areas. Flooding can damage infrastructure, disrupt livelihoods, and pose health risks.
• Drought: While the Maldives typically receives ample rainfall, prolonged dry spells can occur during El Niño events. Droughts can strain water resources, affect agricultural production, and impact tourism.

Climate Change Intensifies Risks: A Growing Threat

Climate change acts as a threat multiplier, exacerbating the risks posed by natural hazards. Rising sea levels amplify the impacts of coastal erosion and storm surges, while changing rainfall patterns increase the risk of both floods and droughts. Climate change also contributes to the formation of more intense and frequent tropical cyclones.

The MRAM highlights the urgent need for the Maldives to adapt to the changing climate. Adaptation measures, such as coastal protection structures, improved drainage systems, and drought-resistant crops, can help the country mitigate the impacts of climate change and build resilience.

Vulnerability Assessment: Identifying Areas at Risk

The MRAM goes beyond hazard assessment by conducting a comprehensive vulnerability assessment. This assessment identifies the areas and populations most vulnerable to different hazards. Factors such as poverty, access to infrastructure and services, and land use patterns are considered in the analysis.

The vulnerability assessment provides valuable information for decision-makers to prioritize risk reduction measures and target vulnerable populations. It also helps identify areas where community-based disaster risk reduction initiatives can be most effective.

Risk Management Strategies: Charting a Path to Resilience

The MRAM culminates in a detailed exploration of risk management strategies for the Maldives. These strategies include:

• Structural Measures: Building seawalls, breakwaters, and other physical structures to protect coastal areas from erosion and flooding.
• Non-Structural Measures: Implementing land-use planning regulations, promoting disaster preparedness education, and developing early warning systems.
• Ecosystem-Based Measures: Utilizing natural ecosystems, such as mangroves and coral reefs, to provide protection against coastal hazards.
• Community-Based Measures: Engaging local communities in disaster risk reduction activities, empowering them to take ownership of their safety.

The MRAM provides a roadmap for the Maldives to transition from risk management to risk reduction. By implementing these strategies, the country can enhance its resilience to natural hazards and climate change impacts, securing a sustainable future for its people and environment.

: A Vital Tool for Disaster Preparedness and Sustainability

The Multihazard Risk Atlas of Maldives is an invaluable resource for the country and the international community. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the risks facing the Maldives and offers practical guidance for risk management and disaster preparedness.

By utilizing the insights contained within the MRAM, the Maldives can make informed decisions to reduce its vulnerability, adapt to climate change, and safeguard its unique and fragile ecosystem for generations to come.

The book is available for download at the following link: Multihazard Risk Atlas of Maldives Summary Volume

Multihazard Risk Atlas of Maldives: Summary—Volume V

by Asian Development Bank

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	117250 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	161 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Hardcover	:	142 pages
Item Weight	:	13.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.38 x 9.21 inches

FREE