Learning from multi-hazard early warning systems to respond to pandemics

Meteorological and hydrological services worldwide have developed and implemented Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS) for weather-and climate-related hazards; these are now being expanded and transitioned toward Multi-Hazard Impact-Based Early Warning Systems (MHIEWS). While it is still early, it is becoming clear that this approach has useful lessons for the COVID-19 global pandemic, and some valuable insight to be gained in risk communication, risk analysis, and monitoring methodologies and approaches. The ability to understand and respond effectively to warnings through appropriate behaviours and actions is central to resilient societies and communities.

The authors argue that MHIEWS can be a common approach for all hazards and therefore is more likely to become a trusted tool that everyone can understand and use as a basic element of their national disaster risk management system. The interconnectedness of hazards and their impacts is a strong motivator for a common approach. One of the lessons from both the COVID-19 pandemic and extreme weather events is the need to understand the vulnerability of individuals, communities, and societies so as to provide reliable, targeted guidance and warnings and ensure the willingness and capacity to prepare for a reasonable worst-case scenario based on informed long-term planning.