In this piece, we will take a look at five countries with the highest flood risk. If you want to take a look at just how severe the global flood risk is, then head on to 25 Countries With the Highest Flood Risk.
5. Republic of the Union of Myanmar
Percentage of Population Exposed to Flood Risk: 39.9%
Myanmar is a Southeast Asian country with a $64 billion economy. Like nearly every other country on our list, it has also seen severe flooding recently. Myanmar’s latest floods took place in August 2023 and while the loss of life was minimal, the devastation saw 60,000 people displaced according to government estimates. The floods took place at a time when Asian countries experience seasonal monsoon rains, and like the others, Myanmar also saw excessive rain that also increased river water levels.
4. Arab Republic of Egypt
Percentage of Population Exposed to Flood Risk: 40.5%
Egypt is an African country with a $378 billion economy. It is one of the most historic nations in the world known for the iconic pyramid. On the flooding side of things, Egypt is particularly vulnerable due to the river Nile. The Nile is the longest river in the world, and its location in Egypt has also made the country one of the first places where human beings settled down to grow their food. The Nile floods every year in the monsoon season, and any changes in rain patterns can be deadly.
3. Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Percentage of Population Exposed to Flood Risk: 46%
Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country that is also one of the most populous nations in the world. It shares a coast with the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea. Vietnam has seen severe flash floods in September 2023, and they came after a major cyclone hit China. Like other developing regions, floods in Vietnam also lead to the poorest of the poor facing the harshest brunt as they are left homeless.
2. People’s Republic of Bangladesh
Percentage of Population Exposed to Flood Risk: 57.5%
Bangladesh is one of the best known countries in the world when it comes to floods. This is because it is located on the coast of the Bay of Bengal and the entire region is known for severe monsoon rains each year. Bangladesh is also particularly vulnerable since it is located less than 39 feet above sea level. So even if sea levels were to slightly rise, then a large portion of Bangladesh would go underwater.
1. Netherlands
Percentage of Population Exposed to Flood Risk: 58.7%
Being built on water should be a disadvantage when it comes to floods and this is the case with the Netherlands. 59% of Dutch land is at risk of severe flooding, and the picture is further complicated by the fact that a large portion of the country is already below sea level. By playing with water, it seems that the Dutch are playing with fire instead.
Disclosure: None. You can also take a look at 20 Countries Hit Most by Earthquakes and 32 Landlocked Developing Countries.
