An interdisciplinary approach to forecasting and early warning systems

Wednesday, Dec 02, UTC 12:00 to 12:55

Organizer: Water Youth Network
Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC), Center of Applied Research in Hydrometeorology (CRAHI)
University of Reading

Forecasting and early warning systems (EWSs) help societies prepare for and respond to all types of disasters, including those due to hydro-meteorological hazards. In recent years, there has been a consensus on the need for an interdisciplinary approach to forecasting, and communicating warnings and their inherent uncertainties. The integration of methods and knowledge such as risk, probabilistic and risk-based forecast, impact-based assessments, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) fields, social science and local knowledge can (1) improve the quality of forecast, (2) improve decision making and (3) support better communication of warnings and response. However, one of the biggest challenges is the need to collaborate across relevant disciplines. Therefore new ways of thinking are required on the necessary skills and tools to facilitate more collaborative work.

This session aims to highlight the benefits and skills required for an interdisciplinary approach in EWS in the form of a role-playing game. Participants will also have the opportunity to understand more about the role of diverse disciplines and the importance of collaborating in EWS in providing a solution. The game will be based on a hypothetical emergency situation, in which participants will be required to make different decisions. After the game, an active discussion with all participants will be carried out proposing take away action points on how to improve interdisciplinarity in EWS and how young professionals can contribute to promoting this approach.

This session is organised by the Water Youth Network’s Early Warnings Young Professionals group (EWSYP) in collaboration with Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC), Center of Applied Research in Hydrometeorology (CRAHI) and the University of Reading. 

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