Experts say climate change and rapid urban growth will leave increasing numbers of people vulnerable to flooding in the years to come.

• 2007 saw some of the worst global flooding in recent memory
• Property, farmland and infrastructure destroyed
• Death tolls lower than earthquakes but devastation similar

Death tolls from floods have generally fallen in recent years as countries become more adept at dealing with the health implications.

A couple of decades ago, floods in Bangladesh would kill thousands, but better sanitation and public education now mean those affected are much better informed.

However, experts say there's a need for long-term planning to deal with floods as preventing them is all but impossible.