Geneva, September 18, 2026:
Extreme water-related disasters affected every region of the world during 2025, with both devastating floods and severe drought conditions recorded across the globe, according to the World Meteorological Organization’s latest State of Global Water Resources report.

The assessment highlights the increasingly uneven distribution of water resources and shows how countries are facing very different forms of water stress at the same time. While some areas experienced destructive flooding after receiving excessive rainfall, others faced prolonged shortages as water supplies declined.

Asia and Africa Among the Most Affected

The report identifies Asia and Africa as the regions that experienced some of the most extreme water-related events during the year. These events included major variations in river flows, precipitation and available water resources.

Flooding can cause widespread damage to homes, infrastructure, agriculture and transportation, while drought can reduce water availability for communities, farming and ecosystems. When such conditions persist, they can create consequences that extend well beyond the areas directly affected.

A Global Water Warning

The WMO assessment provides a worldwide picture of freshwater conditions by examining indicators such as river discharge, reservoirs, groundwater and other components of the hydrological cycle.

Rather than showing a uniform global pattern, the findings point to substantial differences from one region to another. Some locations recorded water surpluses, while others experienced significant deficits.

This contrast is particularly important for governments and water managers because water availability can change considerably over relatively short periods. Reliable monitoring is therefore essential for preparing communities for both floods and droughts.

Climate Variability Adds to the Challenge

Changes in rainfall patterns and increasingly variable hydrological conditions are making water management more difficult in many parts of the world. Extreme events can place simultaneous pressure on food production, drinking-water supplies, energy systems and natural ecosystems.

The WMO’s global assessment is intended to help countries better understand these changes and strengthen water-related monitoring and early-warning systems.

Need for Better Water Monitoring

The findings underline the importance of accurate and timely information about the world’s water resources. Better observations can help authorities identify emerging risks, improve disaster preparedness and support more effective management of freshwater supplies.

As floods and droughts continue to affect communities in different parts of the world, international cooperation and stronger hydrological monitoring remain important tools for reducing the impact of future water-related disasters.

The 2025 findings therefore provide another indication of the scale and complexity of the world’s water challenge, with countries needing to prepare for both too much water and too little water.