Israel launches online national map for climate risks

Israel's Ministry of Environmental Protection on Monday launched a first national online map for climate risks such as extreme storms, floods, wildfires, and heatwaves.

A ministry statement noted that the multi-layered map, created at 9.3 million shekels ($2.54 million), would assist decision-makers, such as security forces and local authorities, to make science-based informed decisions for climate-change preparedness.

The new tool would also assist the general public, with users able to assess various climate risks in their regions and make effective preparations.

The map was created due to the recent increase in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events worldwide, with this trend expected to worsen in the coming decades.

The flooding threats were depicted on the map relying on meteorological, climatic, hydraulic and hydrological models, meteorological forecasts, and topographic and bathymetric structures, highlighting floods from streams and drainage basins, urban areas, and coasts.

Additionally, the map indicates risks associated with urban heat islands.

It also discerns areas with vulnerable populations, including the elderly who are sensitive to climate changes, and regions of low socioeconomic status and with limited preparedness options.

(Cover image via VCG)