Abstract

Author:
Onum Friday Okoh

Doi: 10.26480/efcc.01.2026.30.39

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Earthquakes and tsunamis remain among the most devastating natural hazards, and in 2026 their impacts are increasingly compounded by the accelerating effects of climate change. While earthquakes originate from tectonic plate movements, tsunamis triggered by undersea seismic activity cause widespread destruction along vulnerable coastlines. Simultaneously, rising sea levels, ocean warming, and extreme weather events linked to climate change intensify coastal exposure and magnify disaster losses. This study examines the interrelationship between earthquakes, tsunamis, and climate change in 2026, with the objective of assessing their combined environmental, socio-economic, and infrastructural impacts. Findings indicate that higher sea
levels enable tsunami waves to penetrate further inland, increasing casualties, displacement, and economic damage. Climate-induced degradation of natural coastal defenses, such as mangroves and coral reefs, further reduces resilience against seismic sea waves. Additionally, densely populated coastal cities face heightened risks due to inadequate preparedness and rapid urbanization. The study concludes that although climate change does not cause earthquakes, it significantly amplifies the destructive consequences of tsunami events. An integrated disaster risk management framework is therefore essential. It is recommended that governments strengthen early warning systems, invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, restore natural coastal buffers, and enhance international cooperation to reduce vulnerability and promote sustainable development in hazard-prone regions.