The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) launched the Words into Action publications as a series of guidelines, based on global expertise, communities of practice and networks of disaster risk reduction practitioners. They provide practical, specific advice on implementing a people-centred approach to disaster risk reduction. A multi-hazard early warning system is a key element of a comprehensive disaster risk reduction strategy. This Words into Action guide aims to promote greater implementation of these critical systems across all sectors to protect the most exposed populations from disasters.
Early warning systems include the following four key and interrelated components:
- Disaster risk knowledge based on systematic collection of data and disaster risk assessments.
- Detection, monitoring, analysing and forecasting of hazards and possible consequences.
- Dissemination and communication, by an official source, of authoritative, timely, accurate and actionable warnings, and associated information on likelihood and impact.
- Preparedness at all levels to respond to the warnings received.
This Words into Action aims to guide governments, stakeholders and partners on the institutionalization, operationalization, monitoring and strengthening of people-centred inclusive multi-hazard early warning system(s) that enable early action. It provides knowledge to enable implementation of effective multi-hazard early warning system(s), through presentation of key theoretical and practical aspects to consider for development and/or reinforcement.
Recommendations include: enhancing data availability through better reporting of existing multi-hazard early warning system(s) mechanisms; improving data observation and monitoring; strengthening of the early warning value cycle through effective multi-hazard early warning system(s)governance; making multi-hazard early warning system(s) people oriented, with the goal to “leave no one behind”.
