Learning Lessons: ADB's Emergency and Rehabilitation Assistance on Flood-Affected Areas

Abstract

The climate change phenomenon has contributed to severe weather disturbances over the past years. Extremely heavy precipitation, along with its concomitant consequences, has been observed in many places, and such weather condition is predicted to increase in frequency in the coming years. The effects of this heavy precipitation are aggravated by its unpredictability and unequal geographical distribution. Flooding and destructive runoffs are the end results of several factors, including sustained heavy downpour, inadequate drainage system, poor land-use planning, clogged waterways, and decimated watersheds and water catchment areas, among others. The devastations caused by floods and powerful surface runoffs are similar to the effects of other natural disasters, although they may vary in terms of their magnitude and impacts. What is certain, however, is the damage these disasters can inflict on vulnerable groups of people.