Risks to the Health of Russian Population from Floods and Droughts in 2010-2020: A Scoping Review

Climate change and natural disasters caused by hydrological, meteorological, and climatic causes have a significant and increasing direct and indirect impact on human health, leading to increased mortality and morbidity. Russia is a country that suffers from frequent climatic and weather disasters. This is mainly due to its vast territory, complex geographical and ecological environment, and widely varying climatic conditions. This review provides information on climatological and hydrological extremes in Russia in 2010-2020, floods and droughts, and their impact on the health and well-being of the country's population. A literature search was conducted using electronic databases Web of Science, Pubmed, Science Direct, Scopus, and e-Library, focusing on peer-reviewed journal articles published in English and in Russian from 2010 to 2021. Four conceptual categories were used: floods, droughts, human health, and Russia. It is concluded that while most hazardous weather events cannot be completely avoided, many health impacts can potentially be prevented. The recommended measures include early warning systems and public health preparedness and response measures, building climate resilient health systems and other management structures.

Automated summary

Climate change and natural disasters have a significant impact on human health, particularly in Russia. This review examines climatological and hydrological extremes in Russia from 2010 to 2020, focusing on floods, droughts, and their effects on population health. The study concludes that while it may not be possible to prevent all hazardous weather events, many health impacts can be mitigated through early warning systems, public health preparedness, and building climate resilient health systems.