Africa’s Deadliest Climate Crisis
Africa is undergoing its most severe climate crisis in over a decade. Between 2021 and 2025, weather, climate and water-related disasters affected more people and caused more deaths than in any previous five-year period. The continent faced droughts, floods, cyclones, heatwaves and landslides. These events have exposed deep vulnerabilities in disaster preparedness and climate adaptation.
Human Toll and Disaster Frequency
At least 221.57 million Africans were impacted by disasters from 2021 to 2025. This exceeds the combined totals of the previous two five-year periods. Deaths linked to these disasters rose sharply to 28,759, more than triple the number recorded between 2016 and 2020. These figures may increase further by the end of 2025. The rise reflects both more frequent and deadlier climate events.
Dominance of Droughts
Droughts were the most devastating hazard, affecting over 178 million people or 81 per cent of those impacted. The Horn of Africa suffered five failed rainy seasons, leading to the worst drought in 70 years by early 2023. Southern Africa and the Zambezi basin also faced severe drought in 2024, worsened by a strong El Niño. Floods and storms affected far fewer people comparatively.
Most Affected Countries
Five countries accounted for over half of all disaster-affected people. Ethiopia topped the list with 33.1 million affected, a 17-fold increase. The Democratic Republic of the Congo saw a 42-fold rise to 28.5 million affected. Nigeria, Somalia and Sudan also recorded sharp increases. East African nations bore the brunt, while southern countries like South Africa faced alarming spikes.
Rising Deaths and Regional Hotspots
Disaster deaths have surged over 15 years. From 4,684 deaths (2011-2015) to 28,759 (2021-2025), the increase is stark. North Africa, especially Libya, recorded nearly half of these recent deaths due to the deadly 2023 Derna floods. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Malawi also saw large rises in fatalities, mostly from floods.
Institutional Gaps and Preparedness Challenges
The growing disaster toll is not only due to extreme weather but also institutional weaknesses. Many African countries lack adequate disaster risk reduction, emergency response and climate adaptation plans. The ND-GAIN Index ranks most African nations poorly on climate readiness. Countries like the Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Zimbabwe and the DRC are among the worst performers.
Climate Adaptation and Future Risks
Africa’s exposure to climate hazards will likely increase as global warming intensifies. Without stronger governance, investment and planning, vulnerability will worsen. The current crisis marks the urgent need for enhanced climate resilience to protect millions from future disasters.
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