Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia top global disaster-readiness poll

HO CHI MINH CITY -- Southeast Asian nations lead the world in apparent disaster readiness, according to a new Gallup survey analysis, potentially providing examples for other poorer nations threatened by climate change to follow.

The four countries globally with the highest share of households who say they have disaster plans are the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia, Gallup said in a report last week. Rich countries usually outperform on indicators of planning and agency, but the new findings suggest even those with fewer resources can use early warning systems effectively and empower families to be prepared.