Copenhagen, 15 December (Panos Radio South Asia) - An overwhelming proportion of disasters in 2009 were weather related killing more than 7,000, affecting 55 million, according to a preliminary 2009 disaster figures  of the UN. In addition, this caused an economic damage of more tan US $15 billion.

Floods alone affected more than 11 million people around the world. 

Asia is mostly vulnerable and at highest risk to storms and floods. More than 48 million alone in this region were affected.

The year 2009 has been considered ten of the warmest years since 1850, said Michel Jarraud, Secretary General of the World Meterological Organisation.

There is an important need for early warning systems, seasonal climate forests to manage risks and ensure better preparedness for the vulnerable population to cope with extreme events.

"The number of disasters and related economic losses have increased 10 and 50 times," said Jarraud.