Climate Change and the Delta

Why low-lying Bangladesh is among the most climate-vulnerable countries, facing cyclones, floods and rising seas, and how it has cut cyclone deaths through preparedness.

Bangladesh sits on the world’s largest river delta, formed by the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna.

Vulnerability

Much of the country is only a few metres above sea level.
Cyclones, floods and river erosion are frequent.
Salinity in coastal areas damages farming.

Cyclone deaths fell

The 1970 Bhola cyclone killed an estimated 3 to 5 lakh people.
The 1991 cyclone killed around 1.4 lakh.
Thanks to early warnings, cyclone shelters and volunteers, recent cyclones have killed far fewer people.

Adaptation

Embankments and floating gardens.
Salt-tolerant rice varieties.
Delta Plan 2100 for long-term water management.

Climate migration

Many people move from coastal and river areas to Dhaka after disasters.

Global role

Bangladesh contributes little to global emissions but faces large climate costs, making it a voice for climate finance.

The cyclone shelter

When a cyclone approaches, volunteers warn villagers using megaphones, and families move to raised concrete shelters, saving lives.

Thinking disaster deaths can't be reduced

Bangladesh cut cyclone deaths dramatically through preparedness.

Key takeaways

Bangladesh sits on a low-lying delta.
Cyclones, floods and salinity threaten it.
Early warnings and shelters cut cyclone deaths.
It emits little but faces large climate costs.