The WISER EWSA project initiated its second intensive forecasting testbed on January 30, 2025, in Zambia alongside Mozambique and South Africa. This program aims to enhance meteorological services and improve communication of severe weather warnings to vulnerable communities following the recent devastation by tropical cyclones. By focusing on user engagement and real-time updates, the project seeks to bolster disaster preparedness in southern Africa.
On January 30, 2025, the second intensive weather forecasting testbed, conducted by the Weather and Climate Information Services (WISER) program, commenced in Lusaka, Zambia, having parallel sites in Mozambique and South Africa. This initiative aims to enhance meteorological forecasting and communicate vital weather updates and warnings to areas most at risk in southern Africa, particularly in light of the recent devastation caused by Tropical Cyclones Dikeledi and Chido.
In the aftermath of Cyclone Dikeledi, which caused significant damage with wind gusts reaching 63 km/h and resulted in several fatalities and considerable displacement in Madagascar and Mozambique, the necessity for improved weather forecasting was underscored. Cyclone Chido, even more destructive, inflicted catastrophic damage in Mozambique, claiming over a hundred lives and injuring many, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change.
The multidisciplinary testbed team, comprising meteorologists, scientists, and specialists, is set to evaluate and improve early warning systems crucial for local communities. The project is designed to enhance collaboration by integrating user feedback into forecasting processes, ensuring timely and accessible warnings related to severe weather events.
The testbed, which runs from January 30 until February 7, 2025, is part of a broader ‘king-size’ initiative commencing in October 2024 aimed at refining short-term forecasting methodologies. Unlike prior efforts, which focused on alerts during extreme conditions, this intensive phase will provide regular updates and solicit community feedback throughout the day.
Early warnings of severe weather play a critical role in saving lives and protecting property by preparing communities for unexpected conditions. The WISER EWSA project is also aligned with the United Nations’ Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative, which aims to ensure comprehensive protection against hazardous weather events by 2027.
The need for accurate forecasting is underscored by the challenges posed by climate change, which include unpredictable rainfall and recurrent droughts. Mr. Ishaam Abader, CEO of the South African Weather Service, stated, “The WISER EWSA project targets disadvantaged urban communities while strengthening meteorological capabilities and community engagement for timely responses to weather alerts.”
Key technical findings indicate that meteorological services in the involved countries are increasingly adopting ownership of nowcasting processes for real-time updates. However, effective communication remains a challenge, necessitating timely alerts that allow communities to respond appropriately to changing weather conditions. Successful strategies in Mozambique have included diversifying communication channels and targeting local languages for broader accessibility.
Sustaining reliable forecasting processes depends significantly on resource availability. The intensive testbed will include workshops to explore socioeconomic benefits and resource strategies for sustained early warning services beyond the project duration. Dr. Adriaan Perrels emphasized the importance of establishing viable business models to ensure long-term sustainability of warning services in Africa.
Community feedback has been imperative, with volunteers across the participating countries raising awareness about weather events and early warnings. Enhanced integration of early warning systems with local disaster management efforts ensures effective dissemination of information, particularly benefitting vulnerable communities, including those with disabilities.
The WISER EWSA follows a co-production model that fosters collaboration between information producers and users, thereby improving the quality and relevance of weather services. Dr. Katharine Vincent highlighted the evolution in community perception regarding weather forecasts, stating that people are beginning to recognize their value in mitigating weather-related risks to their lives and livelihoods.
The article discusses a significant weather forecasting initiative in southern Africa, initiated by the Weather and Climate Information Services (WISER) program. This project follows recent tropical cyclones that had devastating impacts on communities in the region, highlighting the urgent need for improved meteorological services. The focus on user engagement and effective communication underscores the importance of timely and accessible weather information in disaster preparedness and risk reduction, especially in light of the increasing frequency of extreme weather caused by climate change.
The intensive weather forecasting testbed initiated by WISER EWSA in southern Africa represents a critical advancement in disaster preparedness and risk mitigation for vulnerable communities. By enhancing methodologies, fostering community engagement, and focusing on effective communication, this initiative addresses the pressing challenges posed by climate change-related weather events. Ultimately, sustained investment and collaboration will be essential in ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of early warning systems in the region.
Original Source: www.metoffice.gov.uk
