“Timor-Leste’s Climate Crisis: Preparing for Vulnerability” 

In April 2021, catastrophic flash floods ravaged Timor-Leste, claiming the lives of more than 30 people and destroying over 4,000 homes. Among the worst-hit areas was Orlalan, a remote mountainous village with a population of nearly 6,000. Residents there had little idea how to protect themselves when floodwaters surged and landslides struck.In Orlalan, community leaders like Armandina Valentina, whose family was affected in the 2021 floods, have taken on the responsibility of educating their neighbors. Valentina is relentless in her efforts, knocking on doors to make sure every resident knows where to go when disaster strikes. She emphasizes that the most vulnerable—pregnant women, children, and the elderly—must be given special attention to avoid panic.Her activities are part of a national initiative, supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), aimed at safeguarding the lives of the Timorese population.In a disaster simulation exercise in Orlalan village, Timor-Leste, children receive first aidDisaster role playAnother element of the programme is disaster simulations. UN News recently joined one of these drills in Orlalan, where children play a crucial role. During the exercise, they practice staying in visible areas, protecting their heads, and shouting for help if they’re trapped. Some children simulate injuries and receive first aid, while others follow rescue teams to safe locations.For young volunteer Fretiliana Alves, these simulations are not just a form of training—they are a calling. “My main motivation is to save lives,” she explains. Alves encourages her peers to join the effort, finding fulfillment in rescuing and caring for those in need.The success of these efforts relies heavily on local volunteers who know the risks and terrain of their communities. As Emidia Belo, Disaster Risk Reduction coordinator for the Red Cross of Timor-Leste (CVTL), notes, during a disaster, these volunteers are often the first responders. Their intimate knowledge of local conditions is indispensable, especially when access to affected areas is blocked.Saving the most vulnerableWhat sets UNEP’s preparedness program apart is its inclusivity. Training sessions are tailored to ensure that people with disabilities, children, the elderly, and pregnant women are all adequately equipped for the challenges posed by a disaster. Antonio Ornai, who is visually impaired, participated in a landslide simulation for the first time in September 2024. “I am grateful to be included,” he says. “I will use everything I’ve learned to protect myself in the future.”This approach, says Emidia Belo, is vital. “Disasters affect everyone, but they hit the most vulnerable the hardest,” she adds. “Changing the community’s mindset to be prepared is a long-term process. It’s not something that happens in just one or two years.” With UNEP’s five-year support, Timor-Leste is making significant strides, but there is still much work to be do