The Importance of Reducing the Vulnerability to Floods
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| According to the information gathered by the Unit for Sustainable Development and
Environment, floods constitute the most prevalent natural disaster in Central America. Of
the approximately 850 natural disasters registered in Central America between 1960 and
1995, more than two-thirds (68%) were caused by floods. The damages resulting from floods have the largest economic, social, and environmental consequences. Clearly it is impossible to eliminate floods completely; however, it is possible to minimize their effects via programs, projects, and activities which are aimed at reducing the vulnerability to economic and social infrastructure. |
Percentage of Natural Disasters by Type of Disaster Registered in Central America between 1960 and 1995
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Where outside funding exists, large river basins benefit from national and international support to manage flood hazards. Technical assistance from industrialized nations provides information via satellite and modern monitoring systems. In minor river basins, small towns and villages do not have access to advanced technology; they are required to confront the problem through the organization, participation, and dedication of the local communities. The mitigation of losses caused by floods requires not only better warning and response systems, but changes to infrastructure as well. Mitigation projects should be integrated at the regional level with community planning and development in the economic and social sector, and they should rely on national level assistance.
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