A global climate-resilience assessment has drawn attention to the uneven ability of cities to prepare for environmental risks. Chicago ranked first among 72 cities examined in the Climate Risk & Resilience Index by AlphaGeo.
Chicago’s position was associated with its freshwater access, geographical advantages and long-term infrastructure investments. The ranking also placed Ahmedabad at the bottom, while Kolkata appeared among the cities facing significant vulnerability.
The assessment considers more than exposure to hazards. It also looks at adaptation through infrastructure, governance, investment and related measures.
South Asia faces particular pressure from extreme heat and heavy rainfall, with six of the ten least resilient cities in the ranking located in the region. The findings underline why urban planning must increasingly include climate preparation.