The state of early warning systems

Abstract

Early warning systems (EWSs) are well recognized as a critical tool for reducing losses from earthquakes, floods, droughts, storms, and other hazards. An overview of the current state of EWS is presented here for ongoing and rapid/sudden-onset and slow-onset (or creeping) hazards. This chapter also includes an overview of the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) reports on national progress in developing effective EWS. Even though many such systems are operational worldwide, there are still several high-risk countries that remain uncovered and that could greatly benefit from such systems. From the HFA reports it appears that the most frequently reported impediment to EWS development is lack of funding; inadequate coordination between local, national, and regional levels; lack of human resources and of EWS infrastructure, for example. Addressing these gaps will imply incredible advances in EWS effectiveness and therefore substantial reduction in disaster losses including climate change-related hazards.