The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) is advocating for the enhancement of early warning systems that go beyond basic monitoring and forecasting, aiming to enable communities to respond promptly and effectively in times of crisis. In a recent stakeholder event in Suva, Gabrielle Emery, head of the UNDRR Pacific Subregional Office, stressed the importance of early warning and action as vital components for disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation strategies. While she acknowledged Fiji’s significant advancements in this area, particularly through the Fiji Meteorological Service, she emphasized the need for a broader approach that promotes community engagement and readiness.
Emery underscored that for early warning systems to be genuinely effective, they must incorporate a collaborative approach that integrates the efforts of both government and local communities. She commended Fiji’s commitment to providing essential services, extending its support to neighboring Pacific nations as well. A key element of success for these systems lies in the ability to communicate risk information effectively, ensuring that communities are prepared to act upon the advisories they receive.
“A successful early warning system must lead to decisive action from communities,” said Emery, highlighting the need for information to be accessible, understandable, and actionable, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and children. She acknowledged the pivotal role of various agencies—including the National Disaster Management Office and the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development—along with the media in effectively disseminating warnings.
Under the global Early Warnings for All initiative slated for launch next year, Fiji plans to enhance its entire early warning infrastructure, focusing on everything from data collection to actionable responses. Emery pointed out the existing gaps in risk communication and stressed the importance of empowering communities to manage information effectively, thereby increasing the nation’s resilience to disasters.
This proactive stance not only aims to protect lives during emergencies but also contributes to a more robust disaster preparedness framework, paving a hopeful path for Fiji and its neighboring islands. The ongoing collaboration and focus on inclusivity illustrate a commitment to safeguarding all communities, particularly the most vulnerable, when disaster strikes.