The Maldives has seen a rise in hazard events, resulting in a 67 percent increase last year on disbursement of emergency aid to address such incidents.
According to the 2024 disaster statistics report released by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), there has been a steady increase in both hazard events and financial aid disbursements over the last three years.
Hazard incidents reported to NDMA:
2022: 144 cases
2023: 183 cases
2024: 251 cases
The NDMA believes the upward trend indicates not only a possible rise in hazard occurrence due to climate and environmental changes, but also improvements in reporting mechanisms and community level awareness.
The data also underscores the need for stronger preparedness systems, especially as the frequency and intensity of incidents continue to rise year by year.
Firefighters battle a massive fire at a government office complex on December 12, 2024. (Sun Photo/Naish Nahid)
The amount of financial aid disbursed by NDMA has similarly increased over the last three years.
Financial aid disbursed by NDMA:
2022: MVR 3 million
2023: MVR 6 million
2024: MVR 10 million
The aid disbursement last year marks a 67 percent increase from the previous year.
According to NDMA, the upward trajectory in aid provision aligns with the growing scale of reported hazard events and associated impacts, especially in high density and flood prone regions.
“The figures reflect both the increasing demand for emergency assistance and the government’s strengthened commitment to disaster response and recovery,” reads the report.
Strong winds and heavy rain cause damage to homes in Maradhoo-Feydhoo, Addu City, on September 8, 2025. (Photo/Facebook/Mohamed Imthiyaz)
Of the 251 incidents reported last year, the most frequent hazards were rainwater flooding, fire incidents, and strong winds.
Occurrence of hazard:
Rainwater flooding: 93 cases
Fire: 83 cases
Strong winds: 57 cases
Tropical cyclone: 8 cases
Gas explosion: 4 cases
Surges: 3 cases
Thunder and lightning: 2 cases
Maritime incidents: 1 case
According to NDMA, the data indicates a shift toward more water and wind related hazards compared to previous years.