BANGKOK, THAILAND – Thailand’s climate vulnerability rose sharply in a new global risk index, as recent record floods illustrated the country’s mounting exposure to extreme weather.
Thailand Rises in Global Climate Risk Ranking
The newly released Climate Risk Index (CRI) 2026 by the organisation Germanwatch painted an alarming picture for Thailand. The country moved from 72nd place in 2022 to 17th place among the nations most at risk from climate impacts. In a 30‑year comparison, Thailand climbed from 30th to 22nd place globally among the most vulnerable countries, based on more than 9,700 extreme weather events over three decades.
Record-Breaking Floods in Songkhla
The recent flood disaster in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province, was cited as a stark example of the new climate reality. The area was hit by 350 millimetres of rain in a single day, an amount described as unprecedented in 300 years. The altered rainfall patterns destroyed livelihoods and left a wide trail of devastation.
Officials Warn of Escalating Climate Impacts
Dr Pirun Saiyasitpanich, director of the climate change department, confirmed the scale of the shift.
“Thailand’s risk has deteriorated dramatically.”
said Pirun, director of the climate change department.
He warned that the Hat Yai floods were a clear manifestation of long‑term trends.
“This is a clear signal of the impacts of climate change.”
said Pirun, director of the climate change department.
Thailand, he added, was now experiencing first-hand what climate change truly meant.
Global Toll of Extreme Weather
The report’s global figures showed the broader context behind Thailand’s rising risk. Over the past 30 years, almost 5.7 billion people worldwide were affected by extreme weather, with more than 832,000 deaths recorded. Economic losses reached about 4.5 trillion US dollars, with storms responsible for 58% of the damage.
Floods, Heatwaves and Storms Drive Losses
According to the index, heatwaves and storms caused most fatalities, accounting for 66% of deaths. Floods affected the largest number of people, impacting 48% of those recorded in the data set. While floods hit more people, storms remained the most damaging hazard in economic terms.
Government Pushes Climate Law and Net Zero Goal
The Thai government responded by advancing a climate change law and setting a target of net‑zero emissions by 2050. A National Adaptation Plan (NAP) was activated to improve early warning systems in high‑risk areas and promote water‑sensitive urban planning. The plan aimed to strengthen resilience through better preparedness and more sustainable development.
Building National Resilience
Dr Pirun said state agencies were seeking broad cooperation across society.
“We are working with all sectors to strengthen the country’s resilience.”
said Pirun, director of the climate change department.
He emphasised that technology and innovative solutions would be deployed to manage the growing risks, particularly in exposed regions.
Iconic Landscapes at Risk
The report warned that Thailand’s famous beaches, bustling cities and rural communities were all under threat. The rise in the climate risk index was described as a wake‑up call for the nation to accelerate adaptation and mitigation efforts. While countries such as St Vincent, Grenada and Chad topped the list of most affected states, Thailand was urged to act now to avoid climbing further.
Urgent Call for Climate Resilience
The findings suggested that the climate was changing faster than Thailand could currently adapt. If daily rainfall totals of 350 millimetres became a new normal, the report implied, the country’s capacity to cope would be severely tested. The authors framed the moment as the end of hesitation and the beginning of a new era of climate resilience, warning that the next mega‑flood could be even more devastating if action lagged.