What should tourists do if they encounter storms, floods, or earthquakes on their journey?
In the context of natural disasters such as storms, floods and earthquakes becoming increasingly unpredictable, tourists need to add disaster contingency plans to their travel plans.
Global tourism is expected to almost fully recover by 2024 from the Covid-19 shock, despite successive climate disasters from wildfires ravaging Greece to warnings of a mega-earthquake in Japan, according to estimates by the United Nations Tourism.
There is almost no "off-season" for tourism anymore. More and more people travel all year round, resulting in less seasonal variation and the "off-season" perks are gone.
However, this wave of tourism is facing many challenges, including increasingly unpredictable natural disasters.
Jon Porter, meteorologist at the weather forecasting companyAccuWeather“Climate change and weather threats are becoming increasingly serious. Don’t be complacent even when the weather seems to be perfect,” he said.
According to experts, the Earth is in a series of 14 consecutive months of record-breaking high temperatures. Many prolonged heat waves accompanied by forest fires, droughts, storms, floods and landslides have occurred continuously.
"Script" for unusual things
Many people start every trip with the mindset of "leaving fate to the gods". But that is not the way to go.
In fact, there are some simple preparations a traveler can make to help themselves be more proactive, such as downloading weather forecast or disaster warning apps for the place you are going.
Visitors can consult the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System, a joint project between the United Nations and the European Commission, which displays real-time global disaster alerts for the past four days.
In addition, common habits before each trip should be maintained, such as sending the itinerary to family or close friends, copying important documents such as passports into many different copies,...
Additionally, it's helpful to look for social media accounts of local organizations that provide emergency alerts, purchase travel insurance, or prepare a satellite phone.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)The US recommends that travelers prepare an emergency kit in their luggage including non-perishable food, first aid kit, flashlight, spare charger, etc.
What to do in case of disaster?
The first thing every traveler should do is assess the situation before taking any action. If you are staying in a hotel, keep in touch with the local authorities as they are one of the most reliable sources of information.
“It's important to listen to local officials. Also, stay informed on radio, television, social media and other local news sources,” said Jaclyn Rothenberg, director of public relations forFEMAsaid.
If things happen quickly and you are outside when disaster strikes, seek higher ground if facing a flood or tsunami. If it is an earthquake, stay away from buildings.
In case of a wildfire or volcanic eruption, look for items like masks that can cover your mouth and nose.
If phone lines are down and communication is lost after you have found a safe place, use social media to let family and friends know you are okay./.
