In 2022, the focus of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction was on Target G of the Sendai Framework: “Substantially increase the availability of and access to multi-hazard early warning systems and disaster risk information and assessments to people by 2030.”
About the theme: Early warning for early action
The need for early warnings is more urgent now than ever due to the continued emergence of frequent, extreme, and unpredictable climate-related hazards. People-centred early warning systems enable action to minimise harm to people and assets. Appropriate warnings are essential to ensure that not only are incoming hazards identified, but that the message is understandable and actionable.
The UNDRR identifies an effective warning system as being:
- Multi-hazard: designed to detect different hazards that may occur alone, simultaneously or cascade
- People centred: designing the systems with people in mind, to empower them to act on time and in an appropriate manner to reduce potential harm.
- End to end: covers the entire range, from hazard detection to action, which includes providing understandable and actionable warning messages
As of April 2022, only 95 countries had reported on the existence of Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS). The aim of this years theme and platform was to raise awareness and mobilise action for greater investment in expanding early warning and early action for all.
Early Warning for Early Action Virtual Panel
For International DRR Day in 2022, AIDR hosted a virtual panel to discuss the significant efforts made in Australia to enhance public information and warnings to support communities to take action to protect themselves and their communities against the impacts of hazards and emergencies.
Participants learnt about the development of the Australian Warning System and the Australian Fire Danger Rating System, and how they will influence community preparedness, safety and action now and into the future.
The expert panel explored the evolution of public information and warnings in Australia, case studies, lessons and challenges for the practice, and how practitioners can best connect with at-risk communities to drive action.
Guest speakers:
- Fiona Dunstan AFSM | Manager, National Community Engagement, BOM
- Kath Ryan |Executive Manager, Public Information and Warnings Unit, QFES
- Dr Simon Heemstra | Director, National Projects and Innovation, AFAC
Moderator:
- Dr Margaret Moreton | Executive Director, AIDR