Climate change exacerbates extreme weather and communities in Southeast Queensland and Northern Rivers are experiencing more disasters, more often, hindering recovery and compounding trauma writes Dr. Kate Wylie, GP and Executive Director of Doctors for the Environment Australia.
The destruction of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred includes significant residential and business damage, disrupted lives, financial insecurity, injuries and loss of life. Longer term this imapct can lead to mental and social health issues, especially for women and children.
To address these challenges, recovery efforts should focus on:
- Reducing climate pollution to mitigate future disasters.
- Strengthening community resilience for better support before and after disasters.
- Increasing mental health funding in disaster preparedness and recovery.
- Recognizing women's unique challenges, including safe housing and financial assistance.
Urgent action is needed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and tackle climate pollution to protect vulnerable populations from future crises.