Burkina Faso and Togo Enhance Flood Forecasting Through International Collaboration

A delegation of specialists from Burkina Faso and Togo traveled to Sweden and Italy for a knowledge-sharing mission focused on advancing flood forecasting and early warning systems. The trip provided insights into operational methodologies, the integration of local data, and the necessity for structured frameworks in disaster management. This initiative aims to strengthen national capabilities in flood risk management, supported by entities such as SMHI, AGRHYMET, and CIMA, with technical oversight from WMO.

Specialists from Burkina Faso and Togo recently engaged in a knowledge-sharing initiative that spanned Sweden and Italy, aimed at enhancing their operational procedures regarding flood forecasting and early warning systems. This delegation, comprising 19 experts, focused on gleaning best practices related to the establishment of effective operational frameworks for disaster management, underscoring the necessity to integrate local data for improved forecast accuracy, as well as advocating for an innovative flood management approach. During their mission from October 16 to 23, 2024, the first phase took place in Norrkoping, Sweden, where the delegation was hosted by the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI). Here, the team learned about the methodologies employed for the production and dissemination of meteorological and flood forecasts. Following this, the group traveled to Malmo, where local leaders presented their initiatives aimed at enhancing community resilience against flooding, particularly emphasizing the critical role of managing solid waste to circumvent urban flooding caused by blocked drainage systems. The subsequent leg of the learning journey was conducted in Italy from October 20 to 23. In Rome, officials from the Civil Protection Agency engaged with the delegation, detailing effective practices for identifying hydrometeorological hazards and the processes involved in communication among the various stakeholders responsible for flood warning systems. A notable highlight was the visit to Genoa, where attendees learned about a regional Civil Protection Center’s flood forecasting capabilities, which prominently utilize local data in their hydrometeorological monitoring efforts. Finally, in Savona, discussions held with the CIMA Foundation spotlighted the necessity for integrating scientific research and technological tools to foster interoperable systems facilitating monitoring and anticipation efforts. The primary outcome drawn from the Italian segment of this exchange was the consensus on the importance of devising a robust national legal and operational benchmark for warning, preparedness, and responsive actions in flood risk management. It was acknowledged that clarity regarding roles and responsibilities across national, regional, and local levels is imperative, alongside fostering inter-institutional communication and coordination. This exchange is anticipated to galvanize Burkinabe and Togolese institutions towards reinforcing their flood warning systems and disaster risk reduction strategies. As a follow-up, both countries plan to formulate standard operating procedures that will enhance their respective national flood warning frameworks, drawing heavily on insights acquired from their experiences in Sweden and Italy. Technical support for this initiative was provided by SMHI, AGRHYMET, and CIMA, who remain steadfast in their commitment to assisting Burkina Faso and Togo in improving their flood forecasting and warning capabilities. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) coordinated this activity as part of the technical assistance granted to Burkina Faso under the Hydromet project and the CREWS Togo project. Pertinent national institutions involved included: Burkina Faso: Agence Nationale de la Météorologie (ANAM), Direction Générale des Ressources en Eau (DGRE), Direction Générale de la Protection Civile (DGPC), Conseil National de Secours d’Urgence et de Réhabilitation (CONASUR), and Ministère de l’Administration Territoriale et de la Mobilité (MATM). Togo: Agence Nationale de la Météorologie (ANAMET), Direction des Ressources en Eau (DRE), and Agence Nationale de la Protection Civile (ANPC).

The initiative undertaken by specialists from Burkina Faso and Togo reflects a growing recognition of the critical importance of effective flood forecasting and early warning systems in mitigating disaster impacts. Frequent flooding poses significant threats to both nations, highlighting the necessity for robust frameworks to enhance disaster preparedness and response. By engaging in international knowledge exchange with established systems in Sweden and Italy, these countries aim to leverage advanced concepts and methodologies to improve local capabilities, integrating local data and fostering inter-agency coordination. The visit underscores a broader commitment to enhancing resilience in the face of climate-related hazards, emphasizing the importance of technological integration and legal frameworks in flood management strategies.

In conclusion, the knowledge-sharing mission undertaken by specialists from Burkina Faso and Togo serves as a vital step towards strengthening their flood forecasting and early warning systems. By exchanging experiences with established flood management practices in Sweden and Italy, participants have identified key strategies to enhance their national capabilities, including the integration of local data and the establishment of clear operational frameworks. The commitment to developing standard operating procedures and enhancing inter-institutional communication will bolster disaster risk management, ultimately leading to improved resilience against flooding in both nations.

Original Source: www.miragenews.com