© Shutterstock

Tehran, Iran -

Tehran, the capital of Iran, has a population of over 15 million and is situated on one of the world's most perilous fault lines, putting all of its inhabitants at risk.

© Reuters

Tehran, Iran -

Tehran's residents face the threat of earthquakes, leading to discussions about shifting the capital to a different city. Over the past years, several earthquakes have caused injuries to hundreds of people.

© Reuters

Shanghai, China -

The most populous city in China is located on the Yangtze River Delta, making it vulnerable to severe floods, storms, and typhoons.

© Reuters

Shanghai, China -

Around 17 million people are potentially at risk of being impacted by natural disasters. The extensive coastline is ready to spill over and cause destruction. 

© Reuters

Kolkata, India -

Approximately 18 million people live around Kolkata, a city situated near the largest river delta in the world. The ancient drainage system of the city is rendered ineffective by frequent and recurring floods.

© Reuters

Kolkata, India -

Kolkata, a city lacking sufficient infrastructure, frequently experiences storms, cyclones, and tsunamis, posing significant challenges to its residents.

© Reuters

Nagoya, Japan -

Nagoya, with a population of nearly 2.3 million, faces a significant threat from natural disasters due to its location along the Ring of Fire. These fault lines account for approximately 90% of global earthquake occurrences.

© Reuters

Nagoya, Japan -

Nagoya faces a significant threat from tsunamis, with a devastating 9.0 magnitude earthquake claiming up to 6,700 lives in 2014.

© Reuters

Jakarta, Indonesia -

The absence of reliable infrastructure leaves approximately 30 million people in Jakarta vulnerable to natural calamities.

© Reuters

Jakarta, Indonesia -

Surprisingly, Jakarta has 40% of its land below sea level, making it susceptible to flooding.

© Reuters

Osaka, Japan -

Osaka has experienced frequent natural disasters, such as the 1995 Great Hanshin earthquake, causing significant destruction. The Osaka-Kobe area is home to over 32 million people facing potential risks.

© Reuters

Osaka, Japan -

Due to its coastal plain location, the city faces vulnerability to natural disasters.

© Reuters

Pearl River Delta, China -

Around 35 million people residing in the low-lying Pearl River Delta face potential risks from natural disasters. The high population density exacerbates the vulnerability of this city during times of trouble.

© Reuters

Pearl River Delta, China -

This region is widely regarded as the most vulnerable to storm surges and ranks third highest for cyclone damage. Additionally, river floods are also frequently observed.

© Reuters

Manila, Philippines -

Manila is densely populated, with half of its residents at risk of damage from earthquakes and deadly storms.

© Reuters

Manila, Philippines -

In 2010, Manila was struck by Typhoon Megi, which killed 69 people. In 2013, Typhoon Yolanda caused even greater damage and killed 6,000 people across the Philippines.

© Reuters

Los Angeles, California -

Los Angeles faces a significant threat of natural disasters. Located on the San Andreas Fault, the region experiences frequent earthquakes. This geographical vulnerability poses a constant risk to the area.

© Reuters

Los Angeles, California -

Over 14 million people living in the area are facing the threat of earthquakes and deadly wildfires that are connected to climate change.

© Reuters

Tokyo, Japan -

The city of the future remains vulnerable to monsoons, river floods, and earthquakes, which threaten approximately 80% of its inhabitants with serious danger.

© Reuters

Tokyo, Japan -

Tokyo is situated on a fault line in the Pacific and is at great risk from tsunamis. The 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami are recent examples of the devastation nature can cause. 

© Reuters

Buenos Aires, Argentina -

With a population of nearly 14 million, Buenos Aires faces the risks of overheating and flooding due to heavy rainfall.

© Reuters

Buenos Aires, Argentina -

Fortunately, Buenos Aires has never experienced a severely catastrophic natural disaster. However, its insufficient infrastructure increases the city's susceptibility to flooding, which can destroy homes and take lives. 

© Reuters

Karachi, Pakistan -

Karachi experiences frequent heavy rainfall and flooding, with the increasing likelihood of floods each year. This Pakistani city also witnesses occurrences of cyclones, droughts, and landslides.

© Reuters

Karachi, Pakistan -

In 2005, a powerful earthquake struck Pakistan, resulting in more than 6,700 fatalities. In August 2020, Karachi was struck by severe flooding that caused widespread damage to homes and public infrastructure, and killed at least 40 people. 

© Reuters

Dhaka, Bangladesh -

Dhaka, a fast-growing city, is among the 20 cities most prone to earthquakes globally due to its urban development.

© Reuters

Dhaka, Bangladesh -

Dhaka's droughts, floods, and cyclones have the potential to impact more than 15 million people. The high population density further complicates problem-solving during emergencies.

© Reuters

São Paulo, Brazil -

Flash flooding is a recurring issue in São Paulo, posing a potential threat to approximately 20 million residents.

© Reuters

Sao Paulo, Brazil -

Dozens of people tragically lost their lives due to flooding and landslides in 2011, sparking criticism towards governing bodies for inadequate disaster planning.

© Reuters

New York City, New York -

Although New York City is known for its wealth and prestige, the surrounding region has historically suffered significant damage from natural disasters.

© Reuters

New York City, New York -

In 2012, Hurricane Sandy caused significant damage in the metro New York area. Despite a strong infrastructure, the city's coastal location puts over 20 million people at risk for floods and rising sea levels.

See also: Climate Change: What We Know So Far

© Reuters