WISER EWSA Launches Intensive Weather Forecasting Testbed in Southern Africa

The WISER EWSA initiative launched an intensive weather forecasting testbed on January 30, 2025, in Zambia, Mozambique, and South Africa, in response to the devastating impacts of recent tropical cyclones. This program enhances forecasting capabilities and disseminates timely weather alerts to vulnerable communities, focusing on practical, user-friendly methodologies derived from real-time engagement and feedback.

On January 30, 2025, the Weather and Climate Information Services (WISER) Early Warnings for Southern Africa (EWSA) initiative commenced a second intensive weather forecasting testbed across Zambia, Mozambique, and South Africa. The program aims to enhance local forecasting capabilities, particularly after Tropical Cyclones Dikeledi and Chido devastated the region, leaving communities vulnerable to severe weather events. The multidisciplinary team includes meteorologists, economists, and user engagement experts focused on disseminating timely weather warnings to those at risk.

Tropical Cyclones Dikeledi and Chido recently wreaked havoc in southern Africa, causing significant loss of life and widespread displacement. Dikeledi, with wind speeds reaching 63 kilometers per hour, led to nearly ten deaths and extensive property damage, while Chido, with gusts surpassing 200 kilometers per hour, tragically resulted in over 100 fatalities. These disasters highlight the region’s susceptibility to hazardous weather events, exacerbated by climate change, which threatens livelihoods annually.

The current intensive testbed runs from January 30 to February 7 and is part of a larger initiative examining the efficacy of forecasting methodologies in real-time scenarios. The previous testbed, conducted in early 2024, established baseline practices for nowcasting. The new phase emphasizes continuous feedback from community observers and aims to refine the precision of weather reports while ensuring that communication effectively reaches vulnerable populations.

Nowcasting techniques provide short-term forecasts, essential for informing communities about imminent severe weather. This proactive approach supports the UN’s Early Warnings for All initiative, which commits to protecting every individual from climate-related hazards by 2027. As the region faces increasing severe weather challenges, the importance of accurate forecasting and timely warnings cannot be overstated in safeguarding lives and property.

Mr. Ishaam Abader, CEO of the South African Weather Service, stated, “The WISER EWSA project targets disadvantaged urban communities while also strengthening meteorologists’ weather modelling and forecasting capabilities.” Furthermore, innovators and researchers are gathering insights from local community involvement to improve forecast understanding and dissemination.

Prof. Douglas Parker from Leeds University noted, “We have learnt many technology- and community engagement-related lessons during the project, even more so during the current testbed.” These lessons aim to leverage the gained knowledge for improved community engagement and weather preparedness.

Dr. Itzel San Roman Pineda emphasized the importance of effective communication amidst rapidly changing weather conditions, advocating for prompt dissemination of forecasts. Effective distribution channels, including digital and traditional media, have shown positive results, particularly INAM’s innovative use of WhatsApp to spread crucial weather updates effectively.

Sustaining nowcasting relies on robust resources, including internet access and efficient communication systems. The current testbed program will also explore socioeconomic benefits associated with EWSA, aiming for sustainable models within Africa. Dr. Adriaan Perrels noted, “The WISER EWSA project will produce estimates of socioeconomic benefits of these warning services in the participating countries.”

Dr. Katharine Vincent emphasized the importance of community engagement, noting that volunteers have fostered awareness and support for verification in their neighborhoods. This localized effort integrates with existing disaster management initiatives, enhancing the efficiency of responses in times of crisis.

The WISER EWSA project follows a co-production approach, ensuring that weather information is accessible and useful for all stakeholders. This method aims to establish trust and increase the community’s responsiveness to weather forecasts, evolving perceptions of their importance in mitigating weather-related risks to life and property.

The article discusses the launch of an intensive weather forecasting testbed in southern Africa as part of the WISER EWSA initiative. The initiative is a response to the increasing frequency and severity of weather-related disasters, particularly Tropical Cyclones Dikeledi and Chido, that have afflicted the region. By bringing together experts from various fields, this project aims to improve forecasting methods, enhance community engagement, and ensure timely dissemination of critical weather information to vulnerable populations.

The WISER EWSA program exemplifies a collaborative approach to improving weather forecasting in southern Africa. Following recent devastating cyclones, it aims to enhance community preparedness through timely alerts and effective communication. The emphasis on socio-economic benefits and user engagement reflects a progressive strategy, ensuring that vulnerable populations are adequately supported during severe weather events.

Original Source: www.metoffice.gov.uk