Extreme Weather Has Disrupted 94 Elections Across 52 Countries, Analysis Finds

Extreme weather is no longer just a challenge for disaster management. It is beginning to disrupt how countries run elections and maintain democratic processes. A new report by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) has found that at least 94 elections across 52 countries have been affected by climate-related events such as floods, heatwaves and wildfires over the past two decades. From damaged infrastructure to displaced voters and last-minute changes in polling arrangements, these disruptions are becoming more frequent as extreme weather intensifies. The findings suggest that climate change is starting to interfere not just with daily life and economies, but also with the basic functioning of democratic systems.

Climate disasters are already affecting elections worldwide

The report shows that extreme weather has had a direct impact on elections in dozens of countries, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia, where systems are often more vulnerable to disruption. In 2024 alone, 23 elections in 18 countries were affected by climate-related events, highlighting how quickly the problem is growing.

These disruptions can take many forms. Flooding and storms can damage roads and polling stations, making it harder for people to vote. In some cases, entire communities have been displaced before elections, forcing authorities to rethink how and where voting takes place. The report points out that such events are no longer rare interruptions. They are becoming part of the broader challenge of running elections in a warming world.

From heatwaves to floods, the risks are becoming more complex

Extreme weather affects elections in different ways depending on the region and type of disaster. In Mozambique’s 2019 election, Cyclone Idai disrupted voting preparations and damaged infrastructure. In Senegal in 2024, flooding created obstacles for both voters and election officials.

Heatwaves are also emerging as a less visible but equally disruptive factor. In the Philippines, high temperatures caused voting machines to overheat and malfunction, showing how even technology can be affected by extreme weather. These examples highlight that the risks are not limited to physical damage. They can also interfere with logistics, equipment and voter turnout, especially when conditions become too difficult or unsafe for people to travel and participate.

Democracies may need to adapt to a changing climate reality

The findings suggest that election systems will need to adjust to a future where climate risks are more common and less predictable. Some regions are already beginning to respond. In Alberta, Canada, authorities have shifted election timing to avoid peak wildfire season, reflecting a growing recognition that climate conditions must be factored into planning.

Experts say this kind of adaptation may become more common. Recommendations include planning elections in safer periods, improving coordination with weather and disaster agencies, and training election staff to handle emergency situations. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, the challenge will not only be to respond to disasters but to anticipate them. The report makes it clear that climate change is no longer just an environmental issue. It is increasingly shaping how societies organise some of their most fundamental democratic processes. 

References:

The Impact of Natural Hazards on Elections

Cyclones and Their Effects on the 2019 Elections in Mozambique

Senegal grapples with floods, economy ahead of parliamentary elections | The Peninsula Qatar

Alberta to shift the fixed election date to fall when natural disaster risk is lower

Banner image: Photo by Arnaud Jaegers on Unsplash

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