WHO advises Kyrgyzstan to prepare for earthquakes, citing high fatality rates

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning to Kyrgyzstan, recommending that the country proactively prepare for earthquakes. The global health body emphasized that seismic events remain the deadliest of all natural disasters, underscoring the urgency of preparedness.

Data from the WHO's European region reveals a grim statistic: from 2000 to 2023, earthquakes were responsible for more than half of all fatalities linked to natural catastrophes worldwide. This highlights the significant and ongoing threat posed by seismic activity, particularly in regions prone to tremors.

Kyrgyzstan, situated in a seismically active zone, faces a persistent risk. The WHO's recommendation serves as a critical reminder for authorities and the public to implement and maintain robust earthquake preparedness strategies. This includes public awareness campaigns, updated building codes, and effective emergency response plans to mitigate the potential loss of life and infrastructure damage.