The report titled “Status of Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS) in the Least Developed Countries” (2024) by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of MHEWS in the world’s least developed countries (LDCs). Prepared in response to the Doha Programme of Action for LDCs, the report emphasizes the urgent need for effective MHEWS to tackle climate change and enhance resilience. It builds on previous global assessments, aiming to identify existing arrangements, lessons learned, and gaps in MHEWS implementation. LDCs are disproportionately affected by disasters, suffering significant human and economic losses, with extreme climate conditions exacerbating their vulnerabilities. MHEWS are integrated frameworks that provide timely warnings for various hazards, enabling communities to take necessary actions to mitigate risks. The report underscores that while progress has been made in supporting MHEWS through multiple initiatives, significant gaps remain in reporting, risk governance, and warning dissemination. Addressing these challenges is crucial for preventing setbacks in development progress within LDCs and ensuring that these nations are not left behind in the face of increasing climate-related threats.

Current Status of MHEWS in LDCs

• Fewer than half of LDCs have reported on their MHEWS, with African LDCs showing particularly low numbers. Despite this, many countries have single-hazard or sector-based early warning systems that are not always recognized as part of MHEWS.
• Effective MHEWS requires strong governance structures with clear roles across sectors. The establishment of a “single authoritative voice” for warnings is crucial.
• There is a significant gap in disaster risk knowledge across LDCs. Many countries lack comprehensive risk information, which is essential for implementing best practices like Impact-Based Forecasting (IBF).
• While IBF approaches are recognized as valuable tools, few LDCs utilize them due to insufficient hazard information and lack of training. Poor observation networks further hinder effective monitoring.
• Reaching vulnerable communities remains a challenge due to access and usage gaps in mobile and internet technologies. A multi-channel approach is necessary to ensure effective communication of warnings.
• Many LDCs lack the operational systems and infrastructure needed for effective MHEWS. Equipment status varies widely, with some countries having advanced systems while others have minimal capabilities.
• There is growing momentum for Anticipatory Action (AA) frameworks among LDCs. However, many plans are localized or not comprehensive enough to cover all priority hazards.

Key Initiatives Supporting MHEWS

The report discusses several global and regional initiatives aimed at strengthening MHEWS in LDCs:

• Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS): This initiative focuses on enhancing early warning capabilities through funding and technical support.
• Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF): Aims to improve observational networks critical for monitoring hazards.
• Mobile for Development: Promotes the use of mobile technology for disseminating warnings.

Challenges Identified

1. Many LDCs do not report on their MHEWS status.
2. Limited access to risk information hinders effective implementation.
3. Challenges in reaching rural populations with warnings.
4. Many countries lack basic operational systems.
5. Need for more comprehensive frameworks covering all hazards.

Recommendations

1. Encourage all LDCs to report on their MHEWS status regularly.
2. Invest in data collection and dissemination of risk information.
3. Develop multi-channel communication strategies that include traditional methods.
4. Invest in infrastructure and training to support effective MHEWS.
5. Ensure every LDC has comprehensive AA plans for all identified hazards.
6. Leverage the potential of young people in implementing MHEWS initiatives.

The report emphasizes that addressing the gaps in MHEWS is vital for preventing setbacks in development progress within LDCs. It calls for increased financial resources and capacity-building efforts to strengthen these systems, ensuring that no country is left behind in the face of climate challenges. By focusing on these areas, the report aims to catalyze action among stakeholders at national, regional, and global levels to enhance resilience against disasters in the least developed countries.

Read the Full Report here