A delegation of specialists from Burkina Faso and Togo engaged in a knowledge-sharing mission in Sweden and Italy to enhance flood forecasting and early warning systems. Key insights gathered emphasized the importance of integrating local data and creating robust operational frameworks. The mission concluded with plans to develop standard operating procedures, supported by technical partners SMHI, AGRHYMET, and CIMA, under the coordination of the WMO.
Officials and specialists from Burkina Faso and Togo recently concluded a knowledge-sharing mission aimed at improving flood forecasting and early warning systems by visiting Sweden and Italy. This strategic exchange focused on the integration of local data into flood management processes, emphasizing the critical need for defined operational protocols to enhance disaster preparedness and response frameworks. The delegation, comprising 19 experts, undertook this mission from October 16 to 23, 2024. The first segment of the visit occurred in Norrkoping, Sweden, where delegates engaged with the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI). They observed firsthand the methodologies employed in generating and disseminating meteorological forecasts. This was followed by an expedition to Malmo, where local government officials demonstrated the resilience measures taken in response to historical flooding events. A significant takeaway from the Malmo session was the necessity of effective solid waste management to mitigate urban flooding risks. Subsequently, the delegation traveled to Italy, where activities from October 20 to 23 further enriched their learning experience. In Rome, they were received by the Civil Protection authorities, who shared insights into the operational aspects of monitoring hydrometeorological hazards and the importance of inter-agency communication within flood warning systems. A visit to a regional Civil Protection Center in Genoa allowed the delegation to focus on how local data informs hydrometeorological forecasting. In Savona, discussions with the CIMA Foundation underscored the vital role of integrating science and technology in developing interoperable tools essential for monitoring and early action regarding flood risk. With these insights, officials from both Burkina Faso and Togo are now poised to refine their national flood warning systems and disaster risk reduction protocols. They are set to draft standard operating procedures rooted in the principles gleaned from their international counterparts. This operational improvement effort is receiving technical support from SMHI, AGRHYMET, and CIMA, who are committed to bolstering the forecasting abilities of both nations. This initiative is part of a broader technical assistance framework coordinated by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) under the Hydromet project in Burkina Faso and the CREWS project in Togo. Key institutional representatives participating in this mission included the Agence Nationale de la Météorologie (ANAM), Direction Generale des Resources en Eau (DGRE), and other pertinent agencies from both countries.
Flooding is a significant concern in many regions, including Burkina Faso and Togo, where climate variability exacerbates the risks of such natural disasters. As a proactive measure, the countries are investing in the enhancement of their flood forecasting and early warning capabilities to better prepare and protect their populations. The trip to Sweden and Italy provided valuable lessons in established methods and frameworks that can be adapted to local contexts in Burkina Faso and Togo, thereby improving their disaster risk management strategies.
The knowledge-sharing mission undertaken by specialists from Burkina Faso and Togo to Sweden and Italy has laid the groundwork for implementing more effective flood forecasting systems in their home nations. By adopting the operational protocols and methodologies observed during the exchange, these countries aim to enhance their readiness and response capabilities for future flooding events. The commitment from local institutions and international support underscores the pivotal collaboration required to address and mitigate flood risks.
Original Source: www.miragenews.com
