Global Cyclone Mortality Risk Grids from 1981-2000

A 2.5-minute grid provides decile classifications of cyclone mortality risk for every land cell globally. Estimates combine 20 years of mortality records from EM-DAT with population data from GPWv3 and cyclone frequency data. The dataset was produced by Columbia University's CHRR and CIESIN, and The World Bank, with data reflecting the period 1981-2000.

Use Cases

• Mapping decile-classified mortality risk per grid cell to identify high-risk regions for cyclone preparedness.
• Analyzing the correlation between GPWv3 population baseline estimates and cyclone hazard frequency data for vulnerability studies.
• Using the 20-year EM-DAT mortality record-derived risk estimates to validate climate change impact models.
• Combining decile risk classes with administrative boundaries to prioritize resource allocation for emergency response.

Strengths

• Global coverage at a 2.5-minute grid resolution (~4.5km at equator).
• Risk estimates derived from 20 years of historical mortality records (1981-2000).
• Integrates three distinct data sources: GPWv3 population, EM-DAT mortality, and cyclone hazard frequency.

Limitations

• Data is temporally stale, with hazard and mortality records ending in 2000.
• Risk is presented as relative decile classes, not absolute mortality numbers.
• Unknown row/column count and file format details limit technical assessment.

Provenance

Source

Columbia University Center for Hazards and Risk Research (CHRR), International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/The World Bank, and Columbia University Center for International Earth Science Information Network (CIESIN).

Collection Method

Gridded risk estimates calculated by combining GPWv3 population data, EM-DAT mortality records, and Global Cyclone Hazard Frequency and Distribution data.

Time Range

1981-2000

Freshness

Data reflects the period 1981-2000; last updated date is 2000-12-31.

Geography

Global