Early warning systems
Early Warning Systems (EWS)
The term 'early warning' is used in many fields to describe the provision of information on an emerging dangerous circustmance where that information can enable action in advance to reduce the risks involved. Early warning systems exist for natural geophysical and biological hazards, complex socio-political emergencies, industrial hazards, personal health risks and many other related hazards.
Studies have demonstrated that disaster prevention can pay high dividends and found that for every Euro invested in risk management, broadly 2 to 4 Euros are returned in terms of avoided or reduced impacts on life, property, the economy and the environment.
Early warning systems can be set up to avoid or reduce the impact of hazards as flood, flashfloods, landslides, storms, forest fires etc. The significance of an effective early warning system lies in the recognition of its benefits by the members of the general public.
Saving lives
Without sufficient warning the provision of emergency supplies, training and evacuation materials can become worthless. The greater the time communities have to prepare, the greater the savings in human life, household assets, livestock and stored provisions.
Early warning systems are made up of, and rely upon, four main elements:
•Observation and recording
•Risk knowledge and recognition
•Warning and dissemination
•Appropriate response
For more information on Practical Action's work with Early Warning Systems please see below:
Early Warning Systems in Nepal
Early warning systems in Nepal Strengthening the capacity of communities to manage early warning systems to reduce the impacts of floods Nepal ranks as one of the most naturally risk prone areas in the world. Affected by flood, earthquake and landslide particularly, the consequences of i...
Read morePreparing for floods
Appropriate training and technologies are introduced in order for families to dramatically lessen the impact of the inevitable flooding
Read moreVideo: flood early warning systems in Nepal
Video: Payal Gurung is handicapped but this has not deterred her from being an active member of the Disaster Management Committee in her Narsahi VDC, Nawalparasi District in Nepal. Narsahi is one o...
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