Changes in Human Vulnerability to Flood and Landslide: Evidences from Historical Data

Abstract

Human impact by floods and landslides (FLs) is a significant concern, necessitating a deeper understanding to implement effective reduction measures, in line with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction’s goal to reduce disaster mortality between 2020 and 2030. This study examines the evolution of human interaction with FLs over the past 70 years in Calabria, Italy. By systematically analyzing regional newspapers and historical archives from 1951–1960 and 2011–2020, a database was created documenting fatalities, injuries, and the involvement of people in FL incidents. For each victim, the database includes demographic details, accident time and place, circumstances of death or injury, and whether the victim’s behavior was hazardous or protective. Results indicate a drastic reduction in both the total number of fatalities (196 versus 20) and high mortality events from 1951–1960 to 2011–2020 (6 versus 1). However, the number of people involved in incidents has increased (202 versus 1102), although this may be partly due to improved dissemination of information. Changes in population habits and the construction of more robust houses have significantly reduced high-fatality events, enhancing security. The study highlights the importance of data collection for developing locally tailored risk reduction strategies, increasing community resilience by addressing specific vulnerabilities and strengths.