Pakistan Ranked Most Vulnerable Country to Climate Change in 2022
Pakistan has been identified as the most vulnerable country to climate change in the Climate Risk Index (CRI) for 2025, released by Germanwatch, Anadolu Agency reported. This ranking follows devastating floods in 2022 that inundated a third of the nation, resulting in over 1,700 fatalities and $30 billion in damages, affecting more than 33 million people.
The report highlights a 50% increase in monsoon rainfall intensity attributed to climate change. August 2022 recorded 243% more rainfall than usual, marking it the wettest August since 1961. Prior to the floods, Pakistan experienced severe heatwaves that contributed to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs).
Lina Adil, co-author of the report, noted that Pakistan is unique in having a National Adaptation Plan, though its implementation remains uncertain. The report emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced mitigation actions from high-emitting countries to support vulnerable nations. Other countries in the top rankings include Belize and Italy, with the U.S. placed seventh.
