High tech, low tech, and no tech: MHEWS technology and innovation for accessibility, collaboration and local leadership
Under the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) Haiti programme, Haitian authorities tackled a longstanding gap in risk communication by developing 41 visually engaging, Haitian Creole-language hazard awareness boards. These boards, created in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, the World Meteorological Organization, and Haiti's Hydrometeorological Unit, illustrate key hazards such as cyclones, droughts, and flooding in ways that are accessible and culturally relevant. The boards were first showcased during the inauguration of civil protection agency's crisis room and the launch of the 2024 hurricane season. The materials are now central to national preparedness campaigns and are being distributed to regional departments. By shifting from technical, top-down messaging to locally tailored communication, this initiative aimed to make early warnings more understandable, inclusive, and actionable.
In Ecuador, Quito's Simón Bolivar neighbourhood, a community-based multi-hazard early warnings system (MHEWS) was implemented to address recurring flood risks from the Caupicho Creek. The initiative combined technology, collaboration, and local leadership to strengthen risk communication and coordination. Municipal authorities installed surveillance cameras, a water-level gauge, and a public megaphone while creating a WhatsApp communication channel between the Emergency Operations Centre and residents. Alerts were issued in three categories -preventive, evacuation, and active event - and a trained local response group supported evacuation and first aid. Crucially, residents activated alarms themselves based on official updates, demonstrating autonomous community leadership. Despite challenges aligning municipal coordination with community action, particularly in urban neighbourhoods, the initiative improved response times and highlights the value of co-designed systems and strong community-government collaboration.
India's Smart Access to Marine Users for Ocean Data Resources and Advisories (SAMUDRA) mobile app, launched by the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services) in August 2023, strengthens MHEWS by delivering real-time, geo-targeted alerts for ocean hazards like tsunamis and cyclones. With colour-coded warnings and regional language support, it enhances last-mile communication for coastal communities. Integrated with satellite-based GEMINI devices, it ensures offshore users also receive timely updates. Recognised with a 2024 Geospatial World Excellence Award, SAMUDRA shows how inclusive, tech-driven design can make EWS more effective and accessible.