While 'photo shoots' of politicians taking an interest in issues on the ground are seen as proof of dedication by some, others say this is an outdated approach.

Proper early warning systems for floods, droughts, heatwaves, cyclones or other disasters allow for planning that minimises adverse impacts.

In a report, UN agencies for weather and for disaster risk reduction found countries with poor early warning systems on average see eight times greater mortality from disasters than countries with strong measures.