Assessing Best Practices of Impact-Based Alerting in Europe and Asia: A Case Study Approach

Project Background: The project ‘Assessing Best Practices of Impact Based Alerting’ takes a case study approach to assessing the progress that is being made towards implementation of an impact-based paradigm for hydrometeorological warnings in both Europe and Asia. National Meteorological and Hydrological Service (NMHS) agencies around the world have been strongly encouraged by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) to transition their alerting programs from hazard-based to impact-based warnings (IBW). This is happening in the context of the Sendai Framework 2015-2030. Currently, at roughly the halfway point to the conclusion of the Sendai Framework, this project performs a ‘check-in’ on the progress of this transition at NMHSs and affiliated partners in both Europe and Asia. This investigation also comes in the wake of recent, high-profile flooding and extreme heat events in both Europe and Asia. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change increases the need for a clear understanding of the requirements and obstacles for NMHS agencies as they transition to an IBW approach.

EMS presentation: At EMS 2023, we will present the findings of interviews conducted at NMHSs and associated key stakeholders, investigating the transition process to IBW in the UK, Sweden and Belgium in Europe and also Bhutan and Nepal in Asia. These findings contribute to a final project report (currently being developed as of April 2023). This report will be operationally relevant, speaking directly to NMHS agencies, key stakeholders (utilities, transport operators, health care practitioners, emergency management officers, etc.) and engaged members of the public alike. The focus will be on lessons learned and best practices from agencies who have already made the transition, while identifying concerns or roadblocks that may be holding back organisations who have yet to make the transition to IBW from doing so. The report will function as a tangible, relevant ‘handbook’ helping all NMHS agencies take the necessary steps, in their own national contexts, towards meeting the WMO recommendation.