Impacts of flood on health: Evidence from northern Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Unexpected events such as floods and earthquakes have long existed in the world and have imposed large losses to society. Every year, these events endanger lives and property of many people all over the world. Floods are the most common of all natural disasters which their consequences depend on factors such as flood causes, geographical location, economic situation, as well as society vulnerability. The aim of this study was to assess the vulnerability of different regions of the Golestan province of Iran to the flooding crisis. Methodology: This retrospective study was done to collect information in the census of all the documentation floods occurred from 1991 to 2013. Results: The results of this study show that 106 floods with frequency 514 have occurred in Golestan province and most severe floods have occurred in the first half of the years (69.8%) occurred. Most losses of human life's due to flooding occurred in the first half of the years. Conclusion: Flood has major impact on health in Golestan province. Therefore, the development of awareness and educational programs on natural disasters must be a priority, because human development largely depends on the ability of society to reduce its vulnerability.