Improved data to better understand exposure, vulnerabilities and hazards

This brief explores key improvements in data delivered by SHEAR projects. The SHEAR programme (Science for Humanitarian Emergencies and Resilience) carried out innovative research, in some of the most hazard-prone parts of the world, to better understand and forecast disasters, and minimize the risk they pose to vulnerable communities. Data plays a key role in preparing for, and responding to, disaster risks. With improved quality, availability and accessibility of hazard-related data, disaster impacts can be better defined and anticipated.

Improving the quality and coverage of hazard and climate data can help practitioners and policymakers to understand when and where hazards are likely to occur, how severe they will be and what impacts they will have. Scientific research can enable the closing of data gaps, providing stakeholders across sectors with the information they need to take early and effective action to reduce the impacts of natural hazards. Monitoring and modelling are two key components for the generation of forecasts which provide accurate and detailed information about likely weather and climate events that decision-makers need. Observing environmental conditions over time enables forecasters to identify and understand patterns in the climate, weather and hydrology. In turn, improving the quality, availability and accessibility of this weather data enables key stakeholders to plan for and respond to hazards, particularly in highly vulnerable regions.