Despite strides made in enhancing multi-hazard early warning systems, the journey to comprehensive coverage is far from complete, with half of the world’s countries still lacking adequate systems. A recent report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) sheds light on this.
AFRICA’S STRIDES AND GLOBAL GAPS
While Africa has made noteworthy progress, doubling the quality of early warning systems, it still lags behind the global average. The report reveals that less than half of the Least Developed Countries and only 40% of Small Island developing States have implemented multi-hazard early warning systems, indicating a critical need for improvement.
CHALLENGES IN THE ARAB STATES
One standout finding is the low risk knowledge in the Arab States, underscoring the need for heightened efforts to bolster early warning capabilities in the region. Understanding and addressing these challenges are pivotal for creating effective strategies in the face of impending climate-related threats.
EARLY WARNINGS FOR ALL INITIATIVE
Launched at COP28, the Early Warnings for All Initiative has marked progress, with 101 countries reporting the presence of an early warning system, a significant increase since the initiative’s inception in 2022. The ambitious goal of covering everyone everywhere by 2027 has garnered support, with the Secretary-General urging a doubling of speed and scale in 2024.
GLOBAL FUNDING FOR PROGRESS
International support for early warning systems receives a boost with new funding announcements from Sweden, Denmark, and France. The commitment of major Multilateral Development Banks and the Green Climate Fund further underscores the collective determination to accelerate progress in this critical endeavour.
NATIONAL SUCCESS STORIES
Highlighting positive developments, countries like Maldives, Laos, and Ethiopia have established national action plans and coordination structures. Benin has enhanced communication to reach vulnerable communities, while Fiji’s flash flood warning system now protects its entire population of nearly 1 million people.
CLOSING THE GAPS AND ENSURING ACCESSIBILITY
While over 400 million people in LDCs and SIDS now have improved access to predictions and warnings, the report emphasizes the need to focus on scaling up support globally. Strengthening risk governance and ensuring early warning systems are tailored to local needs remain crucial for effective implementation.
While progress is evident, sustained efforts, collaborative action, and increased funding are imperative to ensure that early warning systems become a universal shield against the impacts of disasters and climate change.
