Ever increasing Climate-related disasters, Health Risks, and Youth Advocacy in Nepal

According to the 2025 Climate Risk Index (CRI) by German watch, Nepal ranks 69th among the countries most affected by climate change-related extreme weather events from 1993 to 2022, highlighting its vulnerability to disasters such as floods, landslides, and epidemics. The CRI 2025 index reports that an average of 249.7 people lose their lives annually in Nepal due to climate-related disasters. The mortality rate stands at 0.189 per 100,000 people, while approximately 75,840 individuals are directly affected every year.

Between 2012 and 2024, Nepal faced 44,000 climate-related disasters, such as floods, landslides, and storms, causing 5,667 deaths, 922 missing persons, 15,000 injuries, and damage to 42,000 structures and 24,000 livestock. Climate-related disasters have caused Nepal an estimated loss of approximately Rs 49 billion (equivalent to $367 million).

Moreover, in the first quarter of 2025, Nepal reported a notable increase in glacial melt, attributed to rising temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns. This accelerated melt poses significant risks to water resources and energy security, within Nepal and in the South Asian region. Glacial melt and flooding also impacts crop yields giving rise to malnutrition, waterborne and foodborne diseases.

Furthermore, health systems are under strain due to climate change. A study presented at the 11th National Summit of Health and Population Scientists in April 2025 highlighted the vulnerability of Nepal’s health infrastructure to climate risks, emphasizing the need for enhanced resilience and preparedness strategies.

Children and youth, especially in mountainous communities, are disproportionately affected by climate change. In April 2025, 62 children from Karnali Province gathered in Jumla to advocate for child-centered climate policies, addressing concerns over disrupted education, health risks, and food insecurity.

Despite these challenges, Nepal continues to engage in climate diplomacy, urging international cooperation and support to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and safeguard its vulnerable communities.

Read more about extreme weather here.

Read more about health risks here.