Burkina Faso and Togo’s meteorological and disaster management agencies are enhancing flood forecasting and early warning systems through a learning exchange with Sweden and Italy. A 19-member delegation learned about effective practices and operational systems in response to flooding, focusing on waste management, legal frameworks, and data integration. This initiative aims to develop standardized operating procedures and strengthen national frameworks for flood risk management.
In a concerted effort to improve flood forecasting and early warning systems, meteorological and disaster management agencies from Burkina Faso and Togo have engaged in a collaborative exchange of expertise. A delegation comprising 19 professionals from both nations visited Sweden and Italy from October 16 to 23, 2024, to learn from advanced operational flood warning systems.
The first leg of the journey took place in Norrköping, Sweden, where the specialists studied the practices of the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI). They learned about the production and dissemination of timely meteorological and flood forecasts. During their visit to Malmö, local leaders highlighted successful adaptive measures and resilience strategies in response to flooding, emphasizing the importance of solid waste management to mitigate urban flood risks.
The exchange continued in Italy, focusing on flood response strategies. In Rome, the delegation met with Civil Protection officials who provided insights into monitoring hydrometeorological hazards and fostering effective communication among stakeholders involved in flood warning processes. Their visit to a flood forecasting center in Genoa showcased the crucial role of local data in forecasting efforts. Additionally, discussions with the CIMA Foundation in Savona stressed the necessity of integrating scientific advancements to create compatible tools for monitoring and early action.
Key lessons learned included the establishment of a robust legal and operational framework for flood risk management, partnered with clear definitions of roles at various governance levels. Strengthening inter-institutional communication and coordination emerged as vital components in enhancing disaster risk management systems.
This knowledge-sharing initiative has motivated authorities in Burkina Faso and Togo to bolster their flood warning systems and disaster risk frameworks. Moving forward, both countries aim to develop standardized operating procedures for their respective national flood warning systems, informed by the lessons acquired from the Scandinavian countries.
The learning exchange was facilitated by SMHI, AGRHYMET, and CIMA, all dedicated to supporting the enhancement of flood forecasting capabilities in Burkina Faso and Togo. Coordinated by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), this activity is part of technical assistance extended to Burkina Faso through the Hydromet and CREWS Togo projects. Participating institutions included various national agencies responsible for meteorology, water resources, civil protection, and disaster preparedness.
Flood forecasting and early warning systems are essential for disaster risk management, particularly in regions prone to flooding. Collaborative learning exchanges provide opportunities for countries to learn from best practices and adapt these strategies to their local contexts. Countries like Burkina Faso and Togo, facing significant flood risks, benefit immensely from knowledge-sharing initiatives with nations that have established effective hydrometeorological services.
The exchange of knowledge and best practices among Burkina Faso and Togo signifies a pivotal step towards enhancing disaster risk management through improved flood forecasting. By developing a comprehensive national framework informed by insights gained from Sweden and Italy, both nations are working diligently toward safer communities better equipped to handle flood risks. Continued collaboration and support from international organizations will be critical in these efforts.
Original Source: wmo.int
