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International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction

Join the world in reducing disaster risk on International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction - promote safety and resilience in your community!

Tuesday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOctober 13

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendar and get ready to celebrate International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction on October 13! This day was first celebrated in 1989 after a call from the United Nations General Assembly to address the growing issue of natural disasters around the world. Since then, it has become an important occasion to raise awareness about disaster risk reduction and how we can all work together to reduce the risks associated with them. From attending educational seminars to participating in volunteer activities, there are plenty of ways you can join in on this special day. So what are you waiting for? Let's get started!

TIMELINE

International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction Timeline

UNGA Inception

United Nations General Assembly creates the International Day for Disaster Reduction to promote global culture of disaster reduction.

First Observance

The International Day for Disaster Reduction was first observed globally, initiating discussions about disaster risk reduction.

Hyogo Framework

The Hyogo Framework for Action (2005-2015) is endorsed by the UN aimed at building resilience of nations and communities to disasters.

Sendai Framework Approval

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 is adopted at the Third UN World Conference in Sendai, Japan.

Global Assessment Report Release

UNDRR releases the Global Assessment Report highlighting the investment in disaster risk reduction as a cost-effective strategy.

Pandemic Risk Highlight

Amidst COVID-19 pandemic, the need for disaster risk reduction gets emphasized worldwide, cementing the relevance of International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction

Organize a Community Event

Organize a community event that focuses on disaster risk reduction. Invite speakers to talk about the importance of risk reduction, and have activities or workshops to teach people how to prepare for disasters.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with an Organization

Find an organization in your area that focuses on disaster risk reduction and volunteer your time. This is a great way to help the community and gain awareness of the issue.

EDUCATE

Educate Others

Educate others about disaster risk reduction by holding seminars or workshops, creating handouts, or spreading awareness through social media.

LEARN

Learn Emergency Protocols

Take the time to learn emergency protocols for different types of disasters. Knowing what to do in the event of an emergency can help you stay safe and reduce the risk of harm.

CREATE

Create a Disaster Plan

Create a disaster plan for yourself and your family. This can include important contact information, evacuation routes, and other necessary information in case of an emergency.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is Important

It encourages action and education

International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction serves as a reminder that we all need to be proactive in reducing disaster risk and educating our communities on how to be prepared. It encourages us to volunteer with local organizations that specialize in disaster reduction, donate to relief efforts, and encourage others to do the same!

It promotes preparedness

By observing International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, we are reminded of the importance of being prepared for disasters and emergencies. From stocking up on supplies to knowing evacuation plans to having a good safety plan in place, preparation is key to staying safe in an emergency.

It reminds us of the risks

Disasters can come in many forms, from natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes and floods to more human-made issues like terrorism or pandemics. By recognizing International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, we are encouraged to think about these potential risks and practice vigilance throughout the year.