Early Warning Systems

How can we ensure the most effective and timely response to a weather-related hazard? By anticipating its impacts through quantitative forecasts and continuous monitoring, we can be better prepared to manage and respond to it. Equally important is informing potentially exposed populations, enabling them to protect themselves by following pre-defined procedures. This is the core principle behind well-functioning Early Warning Systems (EWSs).

In a changing climate, where the frequency and intensity of many hazards – such as floods, droughts, and wildfires – are increasing, the role of EWSs in civil protection and emergency management has become critical.

Recognizing the importance of Early Warning Systems (EWSs), CIMA Research Foundation has been contributing to this field for over 20 years. Our efforts include developing EWSs for flood, wildfire, and more recently, drought risks, both in Italy and internationally.
An effective EWS begins with a clear understanding of the risks facing a community. The effectiveness of EWS relies heavily on accurate and comprehensive knowledge of the risks. Without this foundational knowledge, the EWS phases (monitoring, warning dissemination, and response) would not function properly.
Then, meteorological forecasts, integrated with hydrological, hydraulic, and wildfire models, along with continuous monitoring from in-situ and remote sensing data, predict the impacts on exposed elements such as populations, infrastructure, and agriculture. This information must be communicated in an accessible and actionable format to enable early action by institutions, stakeholders, communities and citizens.

Early action should be pre-planned and embedded into coordinated emergency plans with clear roles and responsibilities. The sustainable approach of the CIMA Research Foundation has led to the development of civil protection planning through a participatory method that transforms these plans from technical tools into community pacts.