13th Session of the South Asian Seasonal Climate Outlook Forum, Sri Lanka

Ongoing Programs Enhancing Early Warning System to Build Greater Resilience to Hydro-Meteorological Hazards in Timor-Leste

This Project aims address the urgent need for integrated climate information services, covering oceans, and proactive disaster risk management approaches founded on impact-based forecasting and end-to-end MHEWS in Timor-Leste through the following inter-related components: Strengthened delivery model and legislation for climate information and multi-hazard early warning services; Strengthened observations, monitoring, analysis and forecasting of climate […]

Countries :

Timor-Leste

Date : March 2022 – March 2027

Donor : Green Climate Fund through the United Nations Environment Programme

This Project aims address the urgent need for integrated climate information services, covering oceans, and proactive disaster risk management approaches founded on impact-based forecasting and end-to-end MHEWS in Timor-Leste through the following inter-related components:

Strengthened delivery model and legislation for climate information and multi-hazard early warning services;
Strengthened observations, monitoring, analysis and forecasting of climate and its impacts;
Improved dissemination and communication of risk information and early warning;
Enhanced climate risk management capacity.

The project will enable a paradigm shift to evidence-based planning and early action for climate resilience through accurate, timely and actionable climate information, impact-based forecasting, people-centred, multi-hazard early warning systems (MHEWS) and Forecast-based Financing (FbF).

It will build the capacity of Timor-Leste to provide the essential high-resolution data and climate information needed to underpin science-based transformational planning and programming, de-risk investments, and facilitate long-term resilience and adaptation to climate change, protecting both human lives as well as the diverse ecosystems that sustain them.

The Intra-ACP Climate Services Programme (ClimSA)

The six-year Intra-ACP : African, Caribbean, Pacific Group of States, Climate Services and Related Applications (ClimSA) project – with EUR 85 million in funding from the European Union – aims to improve the production, access to and use of climate information, services and applications for decision makers. The project will foster sustainable development through the […]

Donor : WMO

The six-year Intra-ACP : African, Caribbean, Pacific Group of States, Climate Services and Related Applications (ClimSA) project – with EUR 85 million in funding from the European Union – aims to improve the production, access to and use of climate information, services and applications for decision makers. The project will foster sustainable development through the prevention of desertification, preservation of ecological biodiversity and the sustainable use of water management in ACP countries.

RIMES is supporting ClimSA with the following key activities:

Enhance RCC capabilities to produce, deliver and improve climate services through climate service information system (CSIS) at the regional level
Facilitate implementation and coordination of CSIS
Provide methods and tools for observational datasets and model intercomparison at the regional scale to RCCs to assess which datasets are fit for purpose for their regions.

Complete Programs Establishment of a network of 4 real-time seismic stations in Myanmar, Philippines, and Vietnam

The project aims to establish 4 real-time sea-level stations in Myanmar (1), the Philippines (1), and Vietnam (2) for monitoring earthquakes, for tsunami early warnings. Key activities include site survey to determine location appropriate for tsunami warning, design and construction of seismic vaults, equipment acquisition, and on-site installation, telemetry, and reliability testing.

Countries :

Myanmar Philippines Vietnam

The project aims to establish 4 real-time sea-level stations in Myanmar (1), the Philippines (1), and Vietnam (2) for monitoring earthquakes, for tsunami early warnings.

Key activities include site survey to determine location appropriate for tsunami warning, design and construction of seismic vaults, equipment acquisition, and on-site installation, telemetry, and reliability testing.

Complete Programs Crustal deformation measurement and seismicity monitoring over the Indo-Southeast Asian region

The project aimed to improve the availability of seismic and crustal deformation observations in the Indo-Southeast Asian region to aid earthquake hazard and risk analyses efforts. Key activities included site identification, survey, and selection; vault construction and site improvement; establishment of 20 telemetered broadband seismic stations and 8 cGPS stations; and integration into national and […]

Countries :

Bhutan Myanmar Nepal

Date : April 2014 – March 2019

The project aimed to improve the availability of seismic and crustal deformation observations in the Indo-Southeast Asian region to aid earthquake hazard and risk analyses efforts. Key activities included site identification, survey, and selection; vault construction and site improvement; establishment of 20 telemetered broadband seismic stations and 8 cGPS stations; and integration into national and regional networks.

Complete Programs Climate risk information for decision-making at community level

The project developed a series of technical notes for the Asian Development Bank (ADB), focusing on how climate risk information can be used for community development programs in infrastructure, water resources, and agriculture. The notes are inputs to ADB-organized knowledge workshop on how communities’ resilience to disaster and climate risk can be strengthened through community […]

Date : June 2016 – June 2016

Donor : ADB

The project developed a series of technical notes for the Asian Development Bank (ADB), focusing on how climate risk information can be used for community development programs in infrastructure, water resources, and agriculture. The notes are inputs to ADB-organized knowledge workshop on how communities’ resilience to disaster and climate risk can be strengthened through community development processes.

Complete Programs Development and delivery of MRCS early warning, early action training manual

The project built capacity of Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) on application of forecast and warning information in planning and decision-making. Key activities included customization of MRCS early warning, early action training manual; training of trainers; and training of MRCS volunteers.

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : February 2015 – August 2015

The project built capacity of Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) on application of forecast and warning information in planning and decision-making. Key activities included customization of MRCS early warning, early action training manual; training of trainers; and training of MRCS volunteers.

Complete Programs Training of Trainers on Early Warning, Early Action

This consultancy service trained MRCS trainers on early warning, using materials developed by RIMES from an earlier consultancy engagement.

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : March 2017 – April 2017

This consultancy service trained MRCS trainers on early warning, using materials developed by RIMES from an earlier consultancy engagement.

Complete Programs Piloting mainstreaming of DRR and climate change adaptation in agriculture sector

The project supported ESCAP in implementing its project on “Enhancing knowledge and capacity for the management of disaster risks for a resilient future in Asia and the Pacific”. Key activities undertaken are: a) Development of a strategy paper for bringing together ongoing pilot projects on Regional Drought Mechanism and the Monsoon Forums in Cambodia, Myanmar, […]

Countries :

Regional

Date : July 2016 – September 2016

Donor : ESCAP

The project supported ESCAP in implementing its project on “Enhancing knowledge and capacity for the management of disaster risks for a resilient future in Asia and the Pacific”. Key activities undertaken are: a) Development of a strategy paper for bringing together ongoing pilot projects on Regional Drought Mechanism and the Monsoon Forums in Cambodia, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka; b) Development of analytical overview of methodologies for climate risk assessment and impact outlook for slow onset disasters to support mainstreaming DRR and climate change adaptation, particularly in the agriculture sector, including the review and compilation of climate risk assessment methodologies and impact outlooks of El Nino, La Nina, drought, and dry spells; c) Development of guidelines on mainstreaming disaster risk reduction, including those related to climate change adaptation across the agriculture, water, and water-related sectors of national development planning

Ongoing Programs Operational systems for Integrated Disaster Risk Management for Odisha, India (SATARK)

Model Development and DSS integration for Flood Forecasting in Odisha RIMES is working closely with the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) to strengthen OSDMA’s technical capacities to anticipate and manage disaster risks by customising Decision Support System (DSS) tools for carrying out dynamic assessment of risk in key sectors and keeping officials informed of […]

Countries :

India

Date : July 2018 – June 2024

Donor : Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA)

Model Development and DSS integration for Flood Forecasting in Odisha

RIMES is working closely with the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) to strengthen OSDMA’s technical capacities to anticipate and manage disaster risks by customising Decision Support System (DSS) tools for carrying out dynamic assessment of risk in key sectors and keeping officials informed of the potential impacts.

Implemented through the Operational Systems for Integrated Disaster Risk Management project, based on the MOU between RIMES and OSDMA of 2018, the DSS enables OSDMA to provide timely warning and advisory information through enhanced dissemination mechanism to stakeholder departments for better decision making, and minimise potential losses due to potential hazards.

Key activities:

Development, testing in a user environment, and integration into OSDMA operations of the following decision support systems for automated assessment of risks and evaluation and dissemination of risk and resource management actions, informed by climate information at different timescales
Heat wave advisory system
Drought risk monitoring and management system
Flow forecasting and flood early warning system
Forecasting of lightning accidents and striking hazard
Road accident monitoring and reporting system

Integration of INSPIRE

Training of relevant OSDMA personnel, collaborating departments, and other relevant stakeholders in the operation, maintenance, and further development of these decision support systems
Training of users on application of information products from these decision support systems in planning and decision-making for managing risks and resources
Support to OSDMA in the operation of these decision support systems

Flood Affected residents of Bogra District

Flood Forecasting

Flood forecasting is one of the major components of the system in two pilot river basins of Mahanadi and Rushikulya, and with the Department of Water Resources (DoWR) providing the data required for initial model customization, RIMES customized the models for both basins.

Mahanadi River Basin Model currently has a total of 39 sub basins and 29 forecasting locations, which was delineated based on the suggestions and operational requirements from DoWR officials. Forecast verification for the 2020 monsoon season was performed by RIMES.

Highlights:

Rainfall forecast based on RIMES WRF (3 days lead-time) is integrated in the DSS and is available for all 39 sub-basins.
Hydrologic model (HEC-HMS) has been set up for the basin and initial calibration is complete based on the available data.
Hydrological forecast with 3 days lead-time is generated for all stations on an experimental basis.
Several hydrologic models were tested, and lumped models indicated better performance at all stations.

Rushikulya River Basin Model has 15 sub-basins and 8 forecast locations (including the outlet), which were delineated based on the requirements of DoWR officials (outcome of April 2019 workshop)

Highlights:

This basin has WRF rainfall forecasts are available for all sub-basins
A semi-distributed hydrologic model developed in HEC-HMS is available for Rushikulya RB with three days of lead-time. However, calibration was done at only one forecast location (Purusottampur) due to limited data availability.
A lumped model, IHECRAS-CWI was also tested which showed better performance.
IHECRAS-CWI is used to obtain forecasts at Purusottampur with a lead-time of 3 days in SATARK.
Error correction module can significantly improve the accuracy of the forecast and is planned with availability of real-time daily observations at forecast locations (with a maximum lag of 7 days).

Ongoing Programs Empowering last mile users in early warning information delivery and application

Strengthening Last Mile Communication in South Asia Region, funded by USAID through UCAR and implemented by RIMES in select locations in Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, is positioned in building climate resilience through improved access and use of early warning information among last mile users in the region. Leveraging on customized early action plans […]

Countries :

Bangladesh Nepal Pakistan Sri Lanka

Date : October 2021 – July 2022

Donor : UCAR/USAID

Strengthening Last Mile Communication in South Asia Region, funded by USAID through UCAR and implemented by RIMES in select locations in Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, is positioned in building climate resilience through improved access and use of early warning information among last mile users in the region.

Leveraging on customized early action plans (EAPs) and early warning services (EWS), this initiative connects an ecosystem of decision-support system (DSS) tools with the community needs in the early warning information and service value chain through the following key components:

Support national framework for customized climate services

The project seeks to enhance the overall national institutional framework that underpins DRR/DRM planning, emergency response and disaster reporting till the local level. This initiative will capacitate representatives of NMHS, NDMA, local authorities and relevant agencies including media in the pilot areas on impact-based forecasting
and risk-based warning to help them better formulate and communicate early warning information. Customization and piloting of DSS to assist with last mile response, emergency management and long-term DRR are primary focal areas during implementation.

1. Streamline climate services for DRM in the pilot areas

Support to NFCS for DRM sector
Guidance on impact-based forecasting (IBF)

2. Customize Decision Support System for Disaster Risk Management

Stocktaking of all hazard, vulnerability and risk maps and assessments as basis for IBF
Development and customization of DSS for DRM

Support establishing end-to-end, people centered multi-hazard warning

The project will bolster mechanisms for early warning and anticipatory actions in the community in the broader framework of Forecast based Action (FbA). Activities in the community will also involve familiarizing community members with DRM plans and SOPs. Furthermore, this initiative will support integration of forecast-based triggers, EAPs and damage reports in the DSS for subsequent feedback in informing policy-making.

1. Effective End-to-End,People-Centered Multi-Hazard Early Warning Services

Conducting hazard, vulnerability, capacity assessments
Installing low-cost monitoring and communication equipment
DRR planning and establishment of forecast-based EAPs
Training, public awareness campaigns, drills and exercises

2. Roadmap for End-to-End People-Centered Multi-Hazard Early Warning Services

Early warning audit and lessons sharing
Integration of refined EAPs in the DSS
Planning for DSS maintenance and scaling-up EAPs in other locations

Complete Programs Technical advisory services for climate information and services to manage climate risk in the dry zone of Myanmar

The project aimed to strengthen institutional arrangements and related capacities of Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, sectoral agencies, local government institutions, CSOs, and communities in managing climate-related risks through improved understanding of climate risks in project locations, enhancing the formulation of weather/ climate forecast and related information, including information dissemination. The project contributes to […]

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : September 2016 – December 2017

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to strengthen institutional arrangements and related capacities of Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, sectoral agencies, local government institutions, CSOs, and communities in managing climate-related risks through improved understanding of climate risks in project locations, enhancing the formulation of weather/ climate forecast and related information, including information dissemination. The project contributes to reducing the increasing impacts of climate change on agricultural and livestock production cycles in Myanmar’s Dry Zone, under UNDP Adaptation Fund-supported project on “Addressing Climate Change Risks on Water Resources and Food Security in the Dry Zone of Myanmar”.

Location: Myanmar (Townships: Monywa, Shwebo, Myingyan, Nyaung U, Chauk)
Key activities included: analysis of available weather and climate information (trends, extremes, thresholds) for 5 townships, and available future climate change scenario for the Dry Zone; analysis of impacts on key sectors; assessment of existing weather/ climate/ early warning information flow from national to local level; user need assessments; adaptation of tools and methodologies for rapid vulnerability assessment at village tract level, and vulnerability/ risk assessment at township level; training of trainers on participatory vulnerability assessment for local government and CSO partners; rapid hazard/ vulnerability/ risk assessment in 136 village tracts, and vulnerability/ risk assessment in 5 townships in a multi-hazard framework, in collaboration with stakeholders; development of climate hazard, vulnerability, and risk maps for 5 townships in GIS platform, taking into account locally-specific socio-environmental conditions; development of customized climate information bulletins and guidance notes for application; development of operational procedures for communicating climate risk information to end users; development of guidelines for mock drill to test information flow from national to end users; national and regional level training on collection, analysis, and communication of climate risk information

Complete Programs El Nino-associated risk assessment in Papua New Guinea

The project aimed to assess the potential exposure of local communities to the effects of projected 2017 El Nino, to form basis for planning of immediate mitigation and response preparedness actions. Key activities included: modeling of possible scenarios for 2017 El Nino, and assessment of likely associated biophysical impacts, limpacted population and geographical distribution, and […]

Countries :

Papua New Guinea

Date : August 2017 – September 2017

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to assess the potential exposure of local communities to the effects of projected 2017 El Nino, to form basis for planning of immediate mitigation and response preparedness actions. Key activities included: modeling of possible scenarios for 2017 El Nino, and assessment of likely associated biophysical impacts, limpacted population and geographical distribution, and sectoral impacts; monitoring of 2017 El Nino development, and updating of impact scenario; capacity building of the National Weather Service on El Nino-associated risk assessments.

Complete Programs Assessment of potential tsunami risk to the Betano Refinery project

The project assessed tsunami risk to the Betano refinery project in Timor-Leste, to guide land development and structural design of the refinery plant and related facilities. Key activities included data collection and preparation, digital elevation model development, tsunami risk assessment and zoning, and generation of tsunami inundation maps.

Countries :

Timor-Leste

Date : June 2013 – December 2013

The project assessed tsunami risk to the Betano refinery project in Timor-Leste, to guide land development and structural design of the refinery plant and related facilities. Key activities included data collection and preparation, digital elevation model development, tsunami risk assessment and zoning, and generation of tsunami inundation maps.

Complete Programs Exposure visit by Pakistan policymakers to Thailand and the Philippines

The project exposed Pakistan policymakers to climate risk management and climate change adaptation policies and practices in Philippines and Thailand to enable participants to integrate learning into the implementation of Intercooperation Pakistan’s project on livelihoods programme Hindukush. Key activities included organization and technical inputs to the study visit.

Countries :

Pakistan

Date : December 1899 – December 2014

The project exposed Pakistan policymakers to climate risk management and climate change adaptation policies and practices in Philippines and Thailand to enable participants to integrate learning into the implementation of Intercooperation Pakistan’s project on livelihoods programme Hindukush. Key activities included organization and technical inputs to the study visit.

Complete Programs Training for National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology, Bhutan, on basic hydrology and GIS application in water resource management

The training aimed to build capacity of the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology, Bhutan, on hydrology.

Countries :

Bhutan

Date : August 2018 – September 2018

The training aimed to build capacity of the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology, Bhutan, on hydrology.

Complete Programs Provision of data and system development support for medium-range to seasonal rainfall-runoff forecast system for Map Ta Put, Rayong

The project aimed to develop an application for river runoff and reservoir inflow forecasting for selected river basin in Map Ta Put, Rayong, Thailand, to guide water allocation and management. Key activities included provision of site-specific medium range to seasonal rainfall forecasts; development of web-based application for integrating rainfall forecast data into hydrological model

Countries :

Thailand

Date : July 2014 – October 2014

Donor : PTT

The project aimed to develop an application for river runoff and reservoir inflow forecasting for selected river basin in Map Ta Put, Rayong, Thailand, to guide water allocation and management. Key activities included provision of site-specific medium range to seasonal rainfall forecasts; development of web-based application for integrating rainfall forecast data into hydrological model

Complete Programs Towards sustaining the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia end-to-end multi-hazard early warning system

The project aimed for countries that are collaborating under RIMES to incorporate into their budgets support for sustaining RIMES. Key activities include documentation of socio-economic benefits of a regional multi-hazard early warning system; and advocacy with collaborating countries to invest in a regional arrangement for early warning

Countries :

Regional

Date : May 2009 – June 2012

Donor : ESCAP

The project aimed for countries that are collaborating under RIMES to incorporate into their budgets support for sustaining RIMES. Key activities include documentation of socio-economic benefits of a regional multi-hazard early warning system; and advocacy with collaborating countries to invest in a regional arrangement for early warning

Ongoing Programs The DFID Asia Regional Resilience to Changing Climate (ARRCC)

Countries :

Afghanistan Bangladesh India Nepal Pakistan

Date : April 2020 – March 2022

Donor : UKMET-ARRCC

Ongoing Programs Development of drought threshold and triggering mechanism in Cambodia and Lao PDR

Countries :

Cambodia Lao PDR

Date : August 2021 – January 2022

Donor : WFP-Drought Trigger

Ongoing Programs Enhance community resilience by reducing risks from extreme natural events – Shouhardo III

Strengthening Household Ability to Respond to Development Opportunities (SHOUHARDO) III program of CARE Bangladesh works with poor rural beneficiaries from 8 districts of the Char and Haor regions of Bangladesh. The locals are highly dependent on agriculture and livestock for their livelihood. However, these communities are the most vulnerable against recurring natural disasters and impacts […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : July 2019 – September 2021

Donor : USAID

Strengthening Household Ability to Respond to Development Opportunities (SHOUHARDO) III program of CARE Bangladesh works with poor rural beneficiaries from 8 districts of the Char and Haor regions of Bangladesh. The locals are highly dependent on agriculture and livestock for their livelihood. However, these communities are the most vulnerable against recurring natural disasters and impacts of climate risk.

To overcome the underlying risks of climate variability and furnish better agricultural/livestock production and disaster risk reduction, RIMES has implemented the project, Improved Weather and Flood Information System for Community Based Risk and Resource Management under SHOUHARDO III program of CARE Bangladesh, supported by USAID and with complementary support from the Government of Bangladesh.

Program Objectives and Accomplishments

The project aims to enhance community resilience by reducing risks from extreme natural events and maximize benefits from favorable weather conditions using impact-based forecasts of different timescales through adaptive techniques for better decision making in community-based risk and resource management.

1. Improve Medium-Longer Range (10-15 days) Flood Forecasting Technology of FFWC

15 days streamflow forecasting model has been integrated into the operational flood forecasting system of FFWC
10 days probabilistic water level forecasting system has been integrated into the operational flood forecasting system of FFWC
Forecast performance has been analyzed and published in FFWC’s annual report of 2019 and 2020
2 trainings have been conducted where in total 12 BWDB professionals have been trained on the system

2. Customize location specific weather forecast at BMD up to Upazila level

Upazila specific weather forecast for 211 upazilas integrated into BMD website
2 trainings have been conducted where total 16 BMD professionals have been trained on the system

3. Pilot forecast based warning/advisory services through DDM, DAE, DLS in selected SHOUHARDO III program Upazilas

A web-based DMC database developed: DMC database populated with data from 23 upazilas under SHOUHARDO III program
Voice message broadcasting tool developed: more than 50,000 recipients
received early warning/advisories through voice message
6 trainings conducted for DDM, DAE, DLS professionals
National Livestock Advisory Services (NLAS) developed followed by 2 National level consultation workshops were arranged for DSS development
2 evaluations conducted of community response to advisories

4. Enhance capacity of National and local level stakeholders in forecast application, risk and resource management

Training guide on Forecast Application and Risk Management developed
179 Farmers, women groups from all 13 upazilas trained on forecast application and risk management
42 LSPs, private sector agents and small entrepreneurs trained in forecast application and risk management
2 batch of school children participated in the awareness raising workshop

shouhardoIII

Program Area

SHOUHARDO III Program works in 115 unions in 23 upazilas of 8 char and haor districts. For piloting the interventions under this project, project sites were selected jointly by CARE Bangladesh and RIMES. The project site included 15 Unions of 13 Upazilas under the 8 SHOUHARDO III Districts – Kurigram, Gaibandha, Jamalpur, Sirajganj, Netrokona, Kishoreganj, Habiganj and Sunamganj

Complete Programs Regional workshop on end-to-end basin-based long-lead flood forecasting and warning

The regional workshop explored possibilities for regional cooperation on transboundary flood forecasting and warning in the South Asian Region (SAR), in support of The World Bank’s South Asia Water Initiative (SAWI). The workshop took stock of existing flood forecasting and warning efforts in South Asian Region (SAR) countries; featured technologies and learn from experiences from […]

Countries :

Bangladesh Bhutan India Nepal

Date : October 2015 – December 2015

Donor : World Bank

The regional workshop explored possibilities for regional cooperation on transboundary flood forecasting and warning in the South Asian Region (SAR), in support of The World Bank’s South Asia Water Initiative (SAWI). The workshop took stock of existing flood forecasting and warning efforts in South Asian Region (SAR) countries; featured technologies and learn from experiences from other countries/ regions; trained operational personnel on new modeling tools; introduced the elements and requirements of an operational basin-based long-lead flood forecasting and warning system; and explorde a regional program on end-to-end basin-based long-lead flood forecasting and warning system in SAR

Ongoing Programs Developing an agromet decision support system for farm advisory (2020- 2025 Back up Support)

The project aims to develop and implement a functional agromet advisory service in 2 pilot sites (Paro and Sarpang), assess the Department of Agriculture (DOA) technical capacity for agromet services, and provide training on crop modeling, decision support systems (DSS), and integration of climate information in farming system models to develop adaptive capacity to mitigate […]

Countries :

Bhutan

Date : July 2018 – June 2019

The project aims to develop and implement a functional agromet advisory service in 2 pilot sites (Paro and Sarpang), assess the Department of Agriculture (DOA) technical capacity for agromet services, and provide training on crop modeling, decision support systems (DSS), and integration of climate information in farming system models to develop adaptive capacity to mitigate climate risks.

Activities include:
Identification of key climate/ weather information relevant to agricultural research and development in Bhutan

Documentation of different cropping systems at the pilot sites, and identification of key production cycles where climate and weather information can lead to improved decision-making

Recommendations for climate products/ forecast systems that the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) could develop

Review of existing weather, cropping, and other agricultural data at the pilot sites, and identification of data gaps

Development and testing of agromet advisory system

Development and testing of suitable ICT tools and SOP for communicating/ disseminating agromet information and farm advisories to farmers and extension and research officers at the pilot sites

Assessment of DOA technical capacity for agromet services and need to establish an Agromet Unit within DOA, linked with NCHM

Preparation of tender documents for procurement of hardware and software for DSS implementation

Technical guidance to DOA on the analysis of meteorological and agricultural data to prepare agro-advisories

Development of training and capacity development plan

Training for Royal Government of Bhutan (RGOB) officials and research and extension staff on analysis of climate and agriculture data for research use and development of farm advisory services

Support for DOA in creating awareness and sensitizing researchers, extension staff, and farmers on the importance and usefulness of agrometeorology

Preparation of manuals and guidelines for promoting, analyzing and implementing agro-met advisory services

Development of working protocols/ SOP for Agromet Unit and MoAF stakeholders for the DSS

Stakeholder consultations to receive feedback on DSS design and functionality, and to monitor product application

Complete Programs End-of-project summary report on achievements in South Asia and Third Pole Region that showcases Canada Project activities undertaken by WMO’s Climate and Water Department and highlights tangible outcomes of the project at the user level

The consultancy project assisted the World Meteorological Organization’s Climate and Water Department (CLW) in preparing an end-of-project summary report on the Canada Project’s activities, achievements, and tangible outcomes at user level in South Asia and Third Pole region. Activities undertaken include: desk study of Canada Project materials regarding South Asia and Third Pole region that […]

Countries :

South Asia

Date : January 2018 – April 2018

Donor : WMO

The consultancy project assisted the World Meteorological Organization’s Climate and Water Department (CLW) in preparing an end-of-project summary report on the Canada Project’s activities, achievements, and tangible outcomes at user level in South Asia and Third Pole region. Activities undertaken include: desk study of Canada Project materials regarding South Asia and Third Pole region that showcases Canada project activities; interaction with relevant WMO Secretariat staff members and focal points in RIMES to clarify the nature of CLW-led achievements in South Asia and Third Pole region; preparation of draft CLW end-of-project summary according to outline provided.

Complete Programs Training on end-to-end early warning

The project developed materials for and delivered a training program on end-to-end early warning, for Relief and Resettlement Department staff at national, regional, and township levels

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : June 2017 – July 2017

The project developed materials for and delivered a training program on end-to-end early warning, for Relief and Resettlement Department staff at national, regional, and township levels

Complete Programs Hydrological model and flood forecasting system setup in Bhutan

The project aimed to build capacity of National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology, Bhutan, on flood forecasting. It involved development and installation of hydrological model and flood forecasting system.

Countries :

Bhutan

Date : February 2018 – March 2018

The project aimed to build capacity of National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology, Bhutan, on flood forecasting. It involved development and installation of hydrological model and flood forecasting system.

People-centered interactive risk and livelihood information gateway

The project aimed at enhanced delivery of and user responses to flood forecast and warning information. Key activities included establishment of participatory phone-based data collection system from manual water level gauges; dashboard development for flood early warning at Flood Forecasting and Warning Center; development of flood risk maps; and local level capacity building on flood […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

The project aimed at enhanced delivery of and user responses to flood forecast and warning information. Key activities included establishment of participatory phone-based data collection system from manual water level gauges; dashboard development for flood early warning at Flood Forecasting and Warning Center; development of flood risk maps; and local level capacity building on flood risk information application.

Ongoing Programs Engagement of consulting firm implementation support for local flood warning dissemination system (Local)

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : September 2021 – December 2024

Donor : PROVATI 3-Consultancy

Complete Programs Consultancy for transboundary river basin floods

The project aimed at strengthening regional cooperation on early warning for transboundary river basin floods. It involved review of current challenges, opportunities, and status of regional cooperation for transboundary river basin floods, and recommendations on establishing a new regional cooperation mechanism, through a multi-stakeholder process.

Countries :

Regional

Date : July 2016 – September 2016

Donor : ESCAP

The project aimed at strengthening regional cooperation on early warning for transboundary river basin floods. It involved review of current challenges, opportunities, and status of regional cooperation for transboundary river basin floods, and recommendations on establishing a new regional cooperation mechanism, through a multi-stakeholder process.

Ongoing Programs Fast-tracking climate services development at national level for Bhutan

The project aims to develop capacities for effective Climate Services in Bhutan. This will be achieved through the enhancement of the capacity of the National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) in developing and applying climate services for decision-making in climate sensitive sectors such as agriculture, water resources, energy, health and disaster risk reduction through […]

Countries :

Bhutan

Date : September 2020 – March 2022

Donor : WMO

The project aims to develop capacities for effective Climate Services in Bhutan. This will be achieved through the enhancement of the capacity of the National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) in developing and applying climate services for decision-making in climate sensitive sectors such as agriculture, water resources, energy, health and disaster risk reduction through the deployment of the Climate Services Toolkit (CST).

The CST includes a suite of products, tools, models and data from Regional Climate Centers (RCCs) and WMO Global Producing Centers for Long-Range Forecasts (GPCLRFs), including the WMO Lead Center for Long-Range Forecast Multi Model Ensemble (LC-LRFMME) jointly coordinated by KMA and CPC/NOAA. Such products, tools, models and data can be adapted and tailored for specific regions and countries.

The CST is a suite of guidance, data, software tools, training resources and examples for enabling climate services at global, regional and national levels in the following areas:

climate data rescue, management and mining
climate analysis and monitoring
climate prediction
climate projection
tailoring information to specific user needs

Complete Programs 13th Session of the South Asian Seasonal Climate Outlook Forum, Sri Lanka

SASCOF-13 gathered NMHSs of the South Asian region to prepare consensus seasonal climate information on regional scale, as guidance to the preparation of national level climate outlooks. Involvement of users from key sectors facilitated NMHS interaction with its users, to understand and enhance the use of climate information.

Countries :

Regional

Date : September 2018 – September 2018

SASCOF-13 gathered NMHSs of the South Asian region to prepare consensus seasonal climate information on regional scale, as guidance to the preparation of national level climate outlooks. Involvement of users from key sectors facilitated NMHS interaction with its users, to understand and enhance the use of climate information.

Complete Programs Development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedure for disaster management for BRAC International Offices

The project assisted BRAC in developing standard operating procedure (SOP) for disaster management, under BRAC’s Disaster, Environment and Climate Change program, to minimize losses from natural and man-made disasters. Key activities included SOP design and development, simulation workshop design to test SOP, guidance to emergency response training manual adaptation, and development of evaluation methodology for […]

Countries :

Afghanistan Liberia Pakistan Sierra Leone South Sudan Tanzania Uganda

Date : September 2013 – June 2015

Donor : BRAC

The project assisted BRAC in developing standard operating procedure (SOP) for disaster management, under BRAC’s Disaster, Environment and Climate Change program, to minimize losses from natural and man-made disasters. Key activities included SOP design and development, simulation workshop design to test SOP, guidance to emergency response training manual adaptation, and development of evaluation methodology for SOP and training effectiveness.

Complete Programs Forecast application for risk management in agriculture school in Tamil Nadu

The project established a climate risk management field school in Nagapattinam District of Tamil Nadu State, India. It involved curriculum adaptation; training material development; 6-day training of block level agriculture officers as trainers; and training of 30 lead farmers from various blocks of the district, over one planting season. Deliverables included inception report, training modules, […]

Countries :

India

Date : February 2016 – June 2016

Donor : Save the Children

The project established a climate risk management field school in Nagapattinam District of Tamil Nadu State, India. It involved curriculum adaptation; training material development; 6-day training of block level agriculture officers as trainers; and training of 30 lead farmers from various blocks of the district, over one planting season. Deliverables included inception report, training modules, training report, and final report.

Ongoing Programs River Morphological Study, Flood hazard mapping and establishment of decision support system for Sindh prov

Countries :

Pakistan Thailand

Date : July 2020 – June 2022

Ongoing Programs Development of climate scenarios and climate change scenarios considering the fifth IPCC assessment results through national, sub-national or other level of scaling (2020-2025 Back up support)

The project aims to establish reliable climate projections based on the results of the 5th IPCC report, responding to the needs of national actors in climate resilience and adaptation in Madagascar, and provide DGM with technical assistance to run Regional Climate Model downscaling at national level. Activities include: Assessment of needs of priority sectors on […]

Countries :

Madagascar

Date : September 2018 – May 2019

Donor : Cellule de Prevention et Gestion des Urgences (CPGU)/ Pilot Program for Climate Resilience

The project aims to establish reliable climate projections based on the results of the 5th IPCC report, responding to the needs of national actors in climate resilience and adaptation in Madagascar, and provide DGM with technical assistance to run Regional Climate Model downscaling at national level.

Activities include:
Assessment of needs of priority sectors on climatic parameters

Provision and operationalization of software for scaling climate projections at DGM

Training of DGM staff on implementing downscaling models and on results interpretation

Listing of climatic parameters for needs of NAP on the basis of AR5 results, and assistance to DGM in evaluating and updating the brochure on climate change in Madagascar

Establishment of climate scenarios considering AR5 results and user needs

Development of guidance document on interpretation of established scenarios

Assistance to DGM in the preparation of publication that presents the significant results of this climate projections project

Facilitation of consultation meetings and workshop for presentation of the publication

Complete Programs Strengthening emergency preparedness systems in Myanmar

The project aimed to strengthen emergency preparedness in Myanmar by having better-informed risk assessments and early warning, and stronger capacities to respond to everyday small-scale disasters. Key activities included establishment of and support to district level warning information generator-users forum; training of trainers on early warning audit and on forecast interpretation and translation; and establishment […]

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : September 2015 – December 2017

The project aimed to strengthen emergency preparedness in Myanmar by having better-informed risk assessments and early warning, and stronger capacities to respond to everyday small-scale disasters. Key activities included establishment of and support to district level warning information generator-users forum; training of trainers on early warning audit and on forecast interpretation and translation; and establishment of redundant communication systems for early warning.

Strengthening early warning system in Cambodia to support climate-resilient development and adaptation to climate change

The project aims to build capacity of: DOM to generate climate information at different timescales using NWP model and long-range statistical models DOH on basic and advanced hydrology Climate-sensitive sectors through Monsoon Forum process Farmers through FARM School Activities include: Training of trainers on basic and advanced NWP modeling and statistical model-based seasonal climate prediction […]

Countries :

Cambodia

The project aims to build capacity of:
DOM to generate climate information at different timescales using NWP model and long-range statistical models

DOH on basic and advanced hydrology

Climate-sensitive sectors through Monsoon Forum process

Farmers through FARM School

Activities include:
Training of trainers on basic and advanced NWP modeling and statistical model-based seasonal climate prediction

Two basic training on meteorology for MOWRAM and PDOWRAM staffs

Customization of RIMES’ seasonal forecast system, and system transfer to and training of DOM

Two basic and advanced training on hydrology for MOWRAM and PDOWRAM

Enhancement of SESAME, with addition of drought monitoring module and dissemination systems by voice messaging and mobile application

Transfer of enhanced SESAME to DOA, including training of admin users

Training of trainers for DOA as expert users of SESAME

Two Monsoon Forums to train institutional users in applying seasonal forecast in sectoral planning

Write-shop for FARM School curriculum and module adaptation

Training of Trainers for DOA officials on FARM School

Training of farmers at pilot sites through FARM School

Progress monitoring, evaluation and reporting

Complete Programs Integrating climate change risks/ opportunities into UNDP country programming

The project aimed to climate-proof UNDP’s Area Based Development Programme in Uzbekistan. Key activities included review of vulnerability and risk assessments, current adaptive capacity, and other climate change initiatives in the country; identification of priority adaptation needs; preliminary exposure assessment; identification of key program areas in need for adjustment; recommendations to better manage climate change […]

Countries :

Uzbekistan

Date : October 2010 – December 2010

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to climate-proof UNDP’s Area Based Development Programme in Uzbekistan. Key activities included review of vulnerability and risk assessments, current adaptive capacity, and other climate change initiatives in the country; identification of priority adaptation needs; preliminary exposure assessment; identification of key program areas in need for adjustment; recommendations to better manage climate change risks/ opportunities; development of climate proofing methodology/ tool; training of UNDP staff; and modality for climate proofing to become part of development assistance programming routine in Uzbekistan.

Ongoing Programs WMO Technical Assistance for the Modernization of the Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH)

The project aims to support DMH to modernize their systems and tools related to: (i) NWP capabilities at DMH, (ii) operational flood forecasting system of DMH, (iii) operational agro-advisory services of DMH, and (iv) central database management system

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : November 2019 – March 2022

Donor : WMO

The project aims to support DMH to modernize their systems and tools related to: (i) NWP capabilities at DMH, (ii) operational flood forecasting system of DMH, (iii) operational agro-advisory services of DMH, and (iv) central database management system

Complete Programs International research and application

RIMES supported Columbia University’s international research and application project, specifically on project scoping on use of climate information in decision-making processes in Bihar, India

Countries :

India

Date : February 2018 – July 2018

RIMES supported Columbia University’s international research and application project, specifically on project scoping on use of climate information in decision-making processes in Bihar, India

Ongoing Programs South Asia – Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change (SSACD)

Date : December 2020 – December 2022

Donor : WBSAHF

Complete Programs Enhancement of marine observation and monitoring capacity

This project component aimed for availability of marine observations in support of ocean state forecasting for Seychelles and Sri Lanka. Key activities included site identification, survey, and selection; wave rider buoy acquisition, importation, and deployment; establishment of onshore data receiving facility; and development and implementation of real-time marine observation data acquisition and feedback systems.

Countries :

Comoros Mozambique Seychelles Sri Lanka

Date : December 2013 – March 2019

This project component aimed for availability of marine observations in support of ocean state forecasting for Seychelles and Sri Lanka. Key activities included site identification, survey, and selection; wave rider buoy acquisition, importation, and deployment; establishment of onshore data receiving facility; and development and implementation of real-time marine observation data acquisition and feedback systems.

Complete Programs Development and delivery of training on climate information application

The project aimed to build capacity of the BRACED Alliance in Myanmar on understanding and applying weather and climate information for resilience planning and decision-making. Key activities included development an delivery of customized 2-day training.

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : August 2015 – August 2015

Donor : Plan International

The project aimed to build capacity of the BRACED Alliance in Myanmar on understanding and applying weather and climate information for resilience planning and decision-making. Key activities included development an delivery of customized 2-day training.

Complete Programs Technical inputs to regional training on disaster risk reduction

The project aimed to build capacity of UNDP country personnel Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen on climate risk management and flood early warning. Key activities included technical inputs to and delivery of training sessions.

Countries :

Regional

Date : May 2011 – July 2011

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to build capacity of UNDP country personnel Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen on climate risk management and flood early warning. Key activities included technical inputs to and delivery of training sessions.

Complete Programs Multi-hazard risk assessment in PNG

The project assessed the vulnerability of communities and infrastructure to natural hazards, determine their degree of exposure to future hazardous events, and develop risk reduction recommendations to be integrated into development planning processes. The assessment will help to generate baselines for DRR programming in pilot provinces. The project is part of Australia Department of Foreign […]

Countries :

Papua New Guinea

Date : January 2017 – November 2018

Donor : UNDP

The project assessed the vulnerability of communities and infrastructure to natural hazards, determine their degree of exposure to future hazardous events, and develop risk reduction recommendations to be integrated into development planning processes. The assessment will help to generate baselines for DRR programming in pilot provinces. The project is part of Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade-supported project on “Strengthening Disaster Risk Management in Papua New Guinea”, aimed at providing strategic support to the Government of Papua New Guinea in reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience to disasters.

Location: PNG (Provinces: Western Highlands, Chimbu, Madang, Central Province, Autonomous Region of Bougainville)
Key activities included: development of methodology for hazard and vulnerability assessments; hazard assessment; assessment of vulnerability of populations and community assets and livelihoods; risk assessment and profiling; development of DRR plans for the pilot provinces; capacity building of National Disaster Center and technical agencies.

Ongoing Programs Engagement of consulting firm for Local Flood warning information dissemination system (RIMES consultants)

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : September 2021 – December 2024

Donor : PROVATI 3-Research

Ongoing Programs Support to the Southeast Asia component of the WMO project on “Building resilience to high-impact hydrometeorological events through strengthening multi-hazard early warning systems in small island developing states and Southeast Asia”

RIMES supports WMO in implementing the Southeast Asia component of its project under the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) initiative. Key activities include: Identification of ongoing/ recently completed regional and national programs and projects relevant to multi-hazard early warning systems (MHEWS) and disaster risk reduction in the project countries Identification, analysis, and documentation […]

Countries :

Cambodia Lao PDR Philippines Thailand Vietnam

Date : November 2018 – July 2019

RIMES supports WMO in implementing the Southeast Asia component of its project under the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) initiative. Key activities include: Identification of ongoing/ recently completed regional and national programs and projects relevant to multi-hazard early warning systems (MHEWS) and disaster risk reduction in the project countries Identification, analysis, and documentation of various assessments of capacities, gaps, and needs relevant to MHEWS at regional, national, and sub-national/ local levels in the countries Mapping of how outcomes of these activities have addressed or are expected to address identified needs, and identification of remaining information needs for MHEWS at national and regional levels Review and documentation of existing national early warning context in the countries National stakeholder workshops to validate and enhance assessment results Regional and country-specific briefs providing comprehensive overview of MHEWS capacities, gaps and needs in the countries, including recommendations with corresponding resource requirements to enhance MHEWS

Complete Programs GIS technical support to USAID/RDMA regional biodiversity and forestry analysis

The project provided technical support to USAID/RDMA biodiversity and forestry analysis in Mekong southeast Asia, Insular Southeast Asia-Pacific, South Asia, and China, to guide USAID/RDMA regional and country strategies. Key activities included gathering, compiling, and analyzing data from free and publicly available sources; and development of geospatial maps.

Countries :

Regional

Date : February 2012 – April 2012

Donor : Chemonics/ USAID

The project provided technical support to USAID/RDMA biodiversity and forestry analysis in Mekong southeast Asia, Insular Southeast Asia-Pacific, South Asia, and China, to guide USAID/RDMA regional and country strategies. Key activities included gathering, compiling, and analyzing data from free and publicly available sources; and development of geospatial maps.

Complete Programs Enhancing weather and climate resilience in RIMES Member States through capacity building on impact forecasting

The project contributed to building resilience to weather- and climate-related hazards through capacity development on impact forecasting in the project countries. Key activities included: Training of climate information users in potential impact assessment, risk analysis, and application of outputs in planning and decision-making for resource and risk management; establishment/ enhancement of seasonal forums with multi-hazard […]

Countries :

Cambodia Fiji Myanmar Papua New Guinea Samoa Sri Lanka

Date : February 2017 – December 2018

Donor : ESCAP

The project contributed to building resilience to weather- and climate-related hazards through capacity development on impact forecasting in the project countries. Key activities included: Training of climate information users in potential impact assessment, risk analysis, and application of outputs in planning and decision-making for resource and risk management; establishment/ enhancement of seasonal forums with multi-hazard scope in Fiji, PNG, and Samoa, facilitating potential impact assessments to inform seasonal planning; integration of earth observations from ESCAP’s regional drought mechanism in potential impact and risk assessments to guide seasonal planning in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka; development/ expansion of decision support systems to aid potential impact and risk analyses in the agriculture sector in Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Papua New Guinea to inform decision-making for managing risks/ resources; and capacity building of NMHSs to enable them to respond to user demands

Ongoing Programs Climate Adaptation and Resilience (CARE) for South Asia

The project aims to contribute in translating this policy into actions through enhanced regional cooperation and knowledge on climate resilience and adaptation, and development of standards and guidelines to facilitate climate-resilient planning and investments. By creating an enabling environment for climate-resilient policies and investments across South Asia, CARE for South Asia to achieve its development […]

Countries :

Bangladesh Nepal Pakistan

Date : July 2020 – August 2025

The project aims to contribute in translating this policy into actions through enhanced regional cooperation and knowledge on climate resilience and adaptation, and development of standards and guidelines to facilitate climate-resilient planning and investments.

By creating an enabling environment for climate-resilient policies and investments across South Asia, CARE for South Asia to achieve its development goal with the following indicators:

Increased access to regional climate data and analytics for climate-informed decision-making
National-level decision-making and planning that are better climate risk-informed
Regional climate resilience guidelines incorporated into national standards
Sectoral investments supported to include climate risks and resilient design
Institutional capacities strengthened to undertake climate-informed policies and planning.

The project has three components, for implementation over 5 years:

Promoting evidence-based climate-smart decision-making, to enhance access to data required for risk-informed planning and investments
Enabling climate-resilient policies and standards for development, to enhance transformation of policies and capacities for climate resilience and adaptation across South Asia
Project management and implementation support.

Component 1 shall be implemented by RIMES. RIMES key role is the development of a Regional Resilience Data and Analytics Service (RDAS) platform and decision-support systems (DSSs) for selected sectors of agriculture, water, road transport, planning and finance in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. RDAS is a cloud-based open-access platform for acquiring, storing, managing, processing, analyzing, visualizing, and reporting data, for use in screening climate risks to inform investments. The DSSs and sector-specific systems, linked to the RDAS, and used to assist users in sectoral planning and decision-making. The first component also includes capacity development of users of these systems and their products.

Overall, the project aims to contribute in translating Resilience of SAARC policy on Resilience of 2010 into actions through enhanced regional cooperation and knowledge on climate resilience and adaptation, and development of standards and guidelines to facilitate climate-resilient planning and investments.

Ongoing Programs SUFAL II Supporting flood forecast action and learning in Bangladesh-Phase II

Bangladesh is one of the most flood-prone countries in the world. Around 25 to 30 percent of the land area is inundated during a normal monsoon period incurring losses equivalent to 1.5% of GDP or $2.2 billion on average per year (ADB 2016). Supporting Flood Forecast-based Action and Learning in Bangladesh (SUFAL) was implemented in a […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : July 2021 – February 2023

Donor : Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO)

Bangladesh is one of the most flood-prone countries in the world. Around 25 to 30 percent of the land area is inundated during a normal monsoon period incurring losses equivalent to 1.5% of GDP or $2.2 billion on average per year (ADB 2016).

Supporting Flood Forecast-based Action and Learning in Bangladesh (SUFAL) was implemented in a consortium led by CARE, with Concern Worldwide, Islamic Relief and technical partner: Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System for Asia (RIMES); and was funded by the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO).

SUFAL project focuses on reducing the vulnerability of flood-prone populations in the Brahmaputra-Jamuna basin by strengthening impact-based forecasting and early warning to trigger early actions and funding prior to flood events. The aim is to reduce the impact of floods on communities, improve effectiveness of emergency preparedness, response and recovery efforts, and reduce the humanitarian burden.

Flood Forecasting Warning Committee (FFWC) had introduced a 15-day flood outlook in the 2020 monsoon, with support of USAID-funded SHOUHARDO through CARE-RIMES, which was utilized by the SUFAL project. RIMES was responsible for providing technical support to FFWC in customizing EWMs through developing Upazila-level vulnerability maps, installing gauges, and developing Digital Elevation Model (DEM).

Promoting Forecast-based Early Action through SUFAL II

Building on the outcomes of phase I, SUFAL II is envisioned around the broader objective of strengthening the capacity of government and communities to take early action. SUFAL-II continues to support GOB in developing a community-based approach to Forecast-based Action (FbA), by highlighting risks and specific needs of most vulnerable households and communities and linking them to available institutional resources and services. The initiative will further enhance its support for institutions to better assist the most vulnerable communities ahead of anticipated floods.

Complete Programs Enhancement of observation and monitoring capacity of PAGASA, Philippines

This project component aimed at improving data availability in support of flood forecasting and warning through establishment of 5 automatic weather stations and 15 automatic water level stations. Key activities included site identification, survey, and selection; equipment acquisition; onsite installations and telemetry; testing and integration into national and regional systems; and onsite training on operation, […]

Countries :

Philippines

Date : April 2014 – March 2019

This project component aimed at improving data availability in support of flood forecasting and warning through establishment of 5 automatic weather stations and 15 automatic water level stations. Key activities included site identification, survey, and selection; equipment acquisition; onsite installations and telemetry; testing and integration into national and regional systems; and onsite training on operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Ongoing Programs Provati 3

The PROVATi3 works to improve rural infrastructure, enhance poor people’s ability to generate income, and increase access to flood information at the community level. The project provides last-mile connectivity to stimulate growth/ commercialization through market access (roads and markets), and increases resilience through diversification of incomes, infrastructure design improvements and better maintenance.

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : September 2021 – December 2024

Donor : International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

The PROVATi3 works to improve rural infrastructure, enhance poor people’s ability to generate income, and increase access to flood information at the community level. The project provides last-mile connectivity to stimulate growth/ commercialization through market access (roads and markets), and increases resilience through diversification of incomes, infrastructure design improvements and better maintenance.

Complete Programs NWP training for Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka

The training aimed to enhance capacity of the Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka, on Numerical Weather Prediction.

Countries :

Sri Lanka

Date : December 2018 – December 2018

Donor : Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka

The training aimed to enhance capacity of the Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka, on Numerical Weather Prediction.

Ongoing Programs South Asia Hydromet Forum (SAHF)

SAHF aims to inform operationalization of hydromet service modernization and DRM investment in SAR countries, contribute to training and capacity building of clients and task teams, and support regional consultations. RIMES administered the second South Asia Hydromet Forum (SAHFII) as a follow up to the inaugural SAHF event which was cohosted by World Bank in […]

Countries :

Afghanistan Bangladesh Bhutan India Maldives Myanmar Nepal Pakistan Sri Lanka

Date : December 2020 – December 2022

SAHF aims to inform operationalization of hydromet service modernization and DRM investment in SAR countries, contribute to training and capacity building of clients and task teams, and support regional consultations.

RIMES administered the second South Asia Hydromet Forum (SAHFII) as a follow up to the inaugural SAHF event which was cohosted by World Bank in partnership with the World Meteorological Organization in Geneva, Switzerland, in October 2018. The event laid the groundwork for a regional cooperation to promote quality hydromet services and early warning systems.

RIMES facilitates SAHF to bring together various stakeholders in the South Asia region to enhance regional collaboration and address hydrological and meteorological challenges that are unique to the region.

SAHF countries include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka

On 1 April 2021, SAHF Executive Council (EC) was formed to steer the whole initiative and to ensure institutional ownership right from the beginning with the inception meeting held by EC (Heads of the NMHS). The EC members elected the EC Chair and Co-Chair, Dr. M. Mohapatra (DG-IMD) and Dr. Karma Dupchu (Director-NCHM, Bhutan) respectively. The First Joint Executive Council and Working Group Meeting were held on 14th June 2021 to launch this initiative.

SAHF Knowledge Hub

The SAHF Knowledge Hub development, initiated in 2021 incorporates the following key features:

RIMES-ECMWF Data Exchange (DataEx) platform- for visualisation of the forecast and observation data
Learning Management System
Forecasters’ forum to enhance operational cooperation between NMHSs.

The SAHF Knowledge Hub supports data and forecast access through, as well as forecast verification (module under development and testing).

Complete Programs Scoping study of early warning systems in Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan, India: Good practices, challenges, and opportunities

The project mapped early warning frameworks and practices in Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan in India, to guide Save the Children programming. Key activities included institutional landscaping; mapping of early warning frameworks for identified hazards; and documentation of existing practices on delivery and use of forecasts and warnings at community level.

Countries :

India

Date : April 2015 – June 2015

Donor : Save the Children

The project mapped early warning frameworks and practices in Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan in India, to guide Save the Children programming. Key activities included institutional landscaping; mapping of early warning frameworks for identified hazards; and documentation of existing practices on delivery and use of forecasts and warnings at community level.

Ongoing Programs Customizing the Specialized Expert System for Agro-Meteorological Early Warning (SESAME) for Sri Lanka (2020 -25 5Back up support)

The project aims for a weather forecast-based agro-advisory system for Sri Lanka, piloted in Mhailluppallama in the dry zone and in Sitaeliya and Bandarawela in the wet zone. Activities include: Data collection and system customization Adaptation of FARM School training modules FARM School training of trainers

Countries :

Sri Lanka

Date : January 2019 – December 2019

Donor : FAO

The project aims for a weather forecast-based agro-advisory system for Sri Lanka, piloted in Mhailluppallama in the dry zone and in Sitaeliya and Bandarawela in the wet zone.

Activities include:
Data collection and system customization

Adaptation of FARM School training modules

FARM School training of trainers

Complete Programs Improvement of precipitation forecast using bias correction techniques for reservoir management at seasonal scale

The project supported PTT research on precipitation forecast-based river runoff-reservoir inflow forecasting by improving quality of precipitation forecasts with the use of bias correction techniques. Key activities included identification and implementation of appropriate bias correction technique for improved precipitation forecasts, and forecast validation.

Countries :

Thailand

Date : May 2015 – December 2015

Donor : PTT

The project supported PTT research on precipitation forecast-based river runoff-reservoir inflow forecasting by improving quality of precipitation forecasts with the use of bias correction techniques. Key activities included identification and implementation of appropriate bias correction technique for improved precipitation forecasts, and forecast validation.

Ongoing Programs Enhancing weather and climate resilience in RIMES member States through capacity building on impact forecasting – Phase II

Effective early warning systems necessitate translation of hazard forecasts into sector and location-specific risk and impact information which can be integrated into decision-making processes for informed anticipatory actions. Early warning is a key element in building resilience to weather- and climate-related risks. In order to galvanize Forecast-based Actions (FbA) in the communities, National Hydrological and […]

Countries :

Bhutan Cambodia Fiji Maldives Papua New Guinea Regional Samoa Sri Lanka Timor-Leste

Date : December 2021 – November 2023

Donor : ESCAP

Effective early warning systems necessitate translation of hazard forecasts into sector and location-specific risk and impact information which can be integrated into decision-making processes for informed anticipatory actions.

Early warning is a key element in building resilience to weather- and climate-related risks. In order to galvanize Forecast-based Actions (FbA) in the communities, National Hydrological and Meteorological Services (NMHSs) need to develop capacities along the entire service delivery chain for generating targeted impact-based forecasting and timely dissemination of accurate, understandable and customized information.

Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 (United Nations, 2015), WMO Guidelines on Multi-hazard Impact-based Forecast and Warning Services (2015, WMO-No 1150) as well as the Multi-hazard Early Warning Systems: A Checklist (2018), highlight the significance of integrating risk and impact information in early warning systems by utilizing the advances in information and communication technologies and Earth observations.

RIMES implemented Enhancing weather and climate resilience in RIMES member States through capacity building on impact forecasting- Phase I, from January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2018, aimed at building resilience to weather- and climate-related hazards by building capacity on impact forecasting in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka in the Asian region, and Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Samoa in the Pacific region.

Enhancing capacities for impact-based forecasting and its application through Phase II

Building on the gains of Phase I, Phase II of the project shall focus in the following areas of interventions

Training of weather and climate information users on potential impact assessment, risk analysis, and application of outputs in planning and decision-making for resource and risk management in agriculture and disaster management sectors
Technical support in conducting seasonal forums, subregional dialogues and facilitating potential impact assessments to inform seasonal planning
Expansion of decision support system to aid potential impact and risk analyses in the agriculture sector
Capacity building of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to enable them to respond to user demands from climate-sensitive and disaster management sectors
Support NMHS and ministry participation in RIMES 4th Ministerial Conference for experience and knowledge sharing

Aligned with the Strategic Note 2021-2024 of the ESCAP Multi-Donor Trust Fund for Tsunami, Disaster and Climate Preparedness, these interventions serve to strengthen people-centered, multi-hazard early warning systems.

Furthermore, to address the countries’ needs from additional sectors beyond the scope of this program, such as tourism and energy, in conjunction with the RIMES Master Plan and WMO-RIMES Joint Strategy & Action Plan formulated as per recommendation of the Member States, RIMES will adopt a flexible framework to meet these emerging needs and demands, and to expand similar programs to other countries in the long term.

Complete Programs Scaling of glacial lake outburst flood risk reduction in Northern Pakistan

The project made a technical assessment on possible risks of natural disasters in project target areas in Northern Pakistan.

Countries :

Pakistan

Date : January 2018 – February 2018

Donor : UNDP

The project made a technical assessment on possible risks of natural disasters in project target areas in Northern Pakistan.

Complete Programs Technical assistance for development and of flood forecast generation and application system in the Ganges Basin

The project aimed to develop longer-lead flood forecasts for Karnali, Narayani, and Babai basins, and demonstrate their application in decision-making for resource management and disaster risk reduction. Key activities included flood forecast model development, testing, and validation; decision support system development for flood risk assessment and warning; and training and technology transfer.

Countries :

Nepal

Date : April 2014 – March 2019

The project aimed to develop longer-lead flood forecasts for Karnali, Narayani, and Babai basins, and demonstrate their application in decision-making for resource management and disaster risk reduction. Key activities included flood forecast model development, testing, and validation; decision support system development for flood risk assessment and warning; and training and technology transfer.

Complete Programs Development and implementation of Standard Operation Procedure for disaster management for BRAC Bangladesh

The project assisted BRAC in developing a Standard Operation Procedure for disaster management in support of BRAC Bangladesh’s Disaster, Environment and Climate Change program. Key activities included analysis of BRAC’s past emergency response activities, practices and institutional knowledge; incorporation of best practices; clarification of roles, responsibilities, relationships, common goals, and opportunities among BRAC, the government, […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : June 2010 – April 2011

Donor : BRAC

The project assisted BRAC in developing a Standard Operation Procedure for disaster management in support of BRAC Bangladesh’s Disaster, Environment and Climate Change program. Key activities included analysis of BRAC’s past emergency response activities, practices and institutional knowledge; incorporation of best practices; clarification of roles, responsibilities, relationships, common goals, and opportunities among BRAC, the government, and civil society organizations; review and analysis of climate-related risks; SOP development; training; and pilot implementation.

Complete Programs Mobile services in flood early warning in Bangladesh

The project supported Deltares in implementing its flood early warning mobile services project. Key activities included user need assessment; technical inputs to user application development for flood early warning; and application demonstrations at pilot sites.

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : February 2014 – December 2015

The project supported Deltares in implementing its flood early warning mobile services project. Key activities included user need assessment; technical inputs to user application development for flood early warning; and application demonstrations at pilot sites.

Complete Programs Toolkit for flood management in transboundary river basins

The project developed a toolkit for flood management in transboundary river basins, incorporating flood forecasting models, risk assessment techniques, and decision support tools from various sources

Countries :

Regional

Date : November 2015 – December 2015

Donor : ESCAP

The project developed a toolkit for flood management in transboundary river basins, incorporating flood forecasting models, risk assessment techniques, and decision support tools from various sources

Complete Programs Enhancement of observation and monitoring capacity of Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, Myanmar

This project component aimed at improving data availability in support of flood forecasting and warning through establishment of 5 automatic weather stations and 15 automatic water level stations. Key activities included site identification, survey, and selection; equipment acquisition; onsite installations and telemetry; testing and integration into national and regional systems; and onsite training on operation, […]

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : April 2014 – March 2019

This project component aimed at improving data availability in support of flood forecasting and warning through establishment of 5 automatic weather stations and 15 automatic water level stations. Key activities included site identification, survey, and selection; equipment acquisition; onsite installations and telemetry; testing and integration into national and regional systems; and onsite training on operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Integrated data analytics support for climate risk, Natural resources and disaster risk Management

Countries :

Cambodia Lao PDR

Complete Programs Development and implementation of user-relevant end-to-end flood forecast generation and application system for Myanmar

The project aimed to develop longer-lead flood forecasts for Ayeyarwady, Chindwin, and Sittoung basins, and demonstrate their application in decision-making for resource management and disaster risk reduction. Key activities included flood forecast model development, testing, and validation; decision support system development for flood risk assessment and warning; and training and technology transfer.

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : April 2014 – March 2019

The project aimed to develop longer-lead flood forecasts for Ayeyarwady, Chindwin, and Sittoung basins, and demonstrate their application in decision-making for resource management and disaster risk reduction. Key activities included flood forecast model development, testing, and validation; decision support system development for flood risk assessment and warning; and training and technology transfer.

Ongoing Programs WMO Technical Assistance for the Modernization of the Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (IMD)

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : December 2019 – March 2022

Donor : WMO

Complete Programs Study visit on emergency risk and crisis communication for officials of the Joint Coordination and Monitoring Center, Iraq

The study visit by 9 officials of Iraq’s Joint Coordination and Monitoring Center aimed to enhance their capacity on communicating emergency risk and crisis situations. The training covered: communication in emergency management, risk communication, and crisis communication. Visits to different institutions exposed participants to operational application of these concepts.

Countries :

Iraq

Date : March 2018 – March 2018

Donor : UNDP

The study visit by 9 officials of Iraq’s Joint Coordination and Monitoring Center aimed to enhance their capacity on communicating emergency risk and crisis situations. The training covered: communication in emergency management, risk communication, and crisis communication. Visits to different institutions exposed participants to operational application of these concepts.

Ongoing Programs Support to the DFID Asia Regional Resilience to a Changing Climate (ARRCC), Met Office Partnership (MOP) Programme

The project supports the implementation of the DFID ARRCC-MOP programme through Regional and National Climate Outlook Forums, user engagement in key priority sectors, training and capacity building in support of RCOF and NCOFs, SASCOF-14, development of sector-specific products, and development of trans-boundary pilots for impact-based and seasonal forecasting.

Countries :

Afghanistan Bangladesh India Nepal Pakistan

Date : February 2019 – March 2022

Donor : DFID through UKMO

The project supports the implementation of the DFID ARRCC-MOP programme through Regional and National Climate Outlook Forums, user engagement in key priority sectors, training and capacity building in support of RCOF and NCOFs, SASCOF-14, development of sector-specific products, and development of trans-boundary pilots for impact-based and seasonal forecasting.

Complete Programs Enhancing climate information and its application at sub-national level

The project aimed to strengthen capacities of stakeholders at sub-national level in linking climate information to planning and decision-making. Under BRACED overarching target outcome for vulnerable communities, driven by women and children, and supported by effective institutions to be more resilient to identified climate shocks and stresses, the project specifically aims for improved communication, access […]

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : June 2016 – December 2017

The project aimed to strengthen capacities of stakeholders at sub-national level in linking climate information to planning and decision-making. Under BRACED overarching target outcome for vulnerable communities, driven by women and children, and supported by effective institutions to be more resilient to identified climate shocks and stresses, the project specifically aims for improved communication, access to, and use of resilience information; and improved planning and decision-making.

Activities included climate profiling based on analysis of historical data for 8 priority townships (Hpaan, Kaba-aye, Kengtung, Kyaukpyu, Labutta, Mawlamyine, Meiktila, Tangoup); policy/applied research on climate information needs for decision-making in Myanmar; technical support to the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology on convening Regional/Sub-National Monsoon Forums in 7 States/Regions (Ayeyarwaddy, Rakhine, Kayin, Mandalay, Shan, Mon, Yangon) for enhancing climate information access and utilization; capacity building of national (training of trainers) and sub-national (local level training) stakeholders on climate forecast translation into potential impacts and management strategies; capacity building of national focal points (training of trainers) on hazard-ready community audit; local/community level audits and certification; demand-based and location-specific technical assistance to strengthen early warning/ risk communication

Complete Programs Seismic hazard assessment (Metro Manila)

The project aimed at developing probabilistic seismic hazard maps for Metro Manila, Philippines to guide private sector investment. Key activities included compilation of past observed seismicity; modeling of earthquake sources; hazard assessment; and generation of ground motion records.

Countries :

Philippines

Date : December 2011 – December 2014

The project aimed at developing probabilistic seismic hazard maps for Metro Manila, Philippines to guide private sector investment. Key activities included compilation of past observed seismicity; modeling of earthquake sources; hazard assessment; and generation of ground motion records.

Complete Programs Development and implementation of user-relevant end-to-end hydrological forecast generation and application system for disaster mitigation in the Philippines

The project aimed to develop longer-lead flood forecasts for Pasig-Marikina basin and two other basins in the country, and demonstrate their application in decision-making for resource management and disaster risk reduction. Key activities included flood forecast model development, testing, and validation; decision support system development for flood risk assessment and warning; and training and technology […]

Countries :

Philippines

Date : April 2014 – March 2019

The project aimed to develop longer-lead flood forecasts for Pasig-Marikina basin and two other basins in the country, and demonstrate their application in decision-making for resource management and disaster risk reduction. Key activities included flood forecast model development, testing, and validation; decision support system development for flood risk assessment and warning; and training and technology transfer.

Complete Programs Enhanced use of disaster risk information for decision-making in Southeast Asia – Regional conference on risk-informed development using disaster risk information for resilience

ADB engaged RIMES’ Disaster Risk Management Knowledge Specialist to support the regional conference on risk-informed development using disaster risk information for resilience, particularly for the session on integrating risk information in the agriculture sector. Activities included: Framing and design of the session Identification and preparation of session speakers Support to session facilitation Session documentation

Countries :

Regional

Date : July 2018 – September 2018

Donor : ADB

ADB engaged RIMES’ Disaster Risk Management Knowledge Specialist to support the regional conference on risk-informed development using disaster risk information for resilience, particularly for the session on integrating risk information in the agriculture sector. Activities included:

Framing and design of the session

Identification and preparation of session speakers

Support to session facilitation

Session documentation

Complete Programs Development of seismic hazard map for Betano Refinery – Timor-Leste

The project assessed earthquake risks to the Betano refinery project in Timor-Leste to guide structural design of the refinery plant and related facilities. Key activities included modeling of earthquake sources; identification of models that reasonably represent attenuation characteristics of earthquake ground motions in the area; hazard evaluation; and production of probabilistic seismic hazard maps.

Countries :

Timor-Leste

Date : June 2013 – December 2013

The project assessed earthquake risks to the Betano refinery project in Timor-Leste to guide structural design of the refinery plant and related facilities. Key activities included modeling of earthquake sources; identification of models that reasonably represent attenuation characteristics of earthquake ground motions in the area; hazard evaluation; and production of probabilistic seismic hazard maps.

Complete Programs Support to GFCS implementation in South Asia

RIMES assisted WMO in implementing the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) in South Asia. Key activities included: the establishment of user interface platforms in Afghanistan and Bhutan; improving user participation in SASCOFs; training on climate information translation and application; engagement with users at national and field levels; advocacy for sustained support to climate services.

Countries :

Afghanistan Bangladesh Bhutan India Maldives Myanmar Nepal Pakistan Sri Lanka

Date : February 2016 – March 2018

Donor : WMO

RIMES assisted WMO in implementing the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) in South Asia. Key activities included: the establishment of user interface platforms in Afghanistan and Bhutan; improving user participation in SASCOFs; training on climate information translation and application; engagement with users at national and field levels; advocacy for sustained support to climate services.

Complete Programs Climate risk management training curriculum adaptation

The project aimed to build capacity of UNDP country personnel in South and Southeast Asian regions on managing climate risks, in support of UNDP’s Bureau for Crisis Prevention and Recovery’s (BCPR) strategic objective to establish climate risk management as service line within the disaster risk reduction and recovery (DRR) sub-practice. Key activities included development of […]

Countries :

Regional

Date : July 2009 – December 2009

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to build capacity of UNDP country personnel in South and Southeast Asian regions on managing climate risks, in support of UNDP’s Bureau for Crisis Prevention and Recovery’s (BCPR) strategic objective to establish climate risk management as service line within the disaster risk reduction and recovery (DRR) sub-practice. Key activities included development of training curriculum, module, and facilitation note, and of post-training impact evaluation guide.

Complete Programs NWP training for National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology, Bhutan

The training aimed to build capacity of the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology, Bhutan, on numerical weather prediction. The training included NWP model installation, customization, and product interpretation.

Countries :

Bhutan

Date : June 2018 – June 2018

The training aimed to build capacity of the National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology, Bhutan, on numerical weather prediction. The training included NWP model installation, customization, and product interpretation.

Complete Programs CGIAR research program 7: climate change, agriculture and food security

The project reviewed and profiled existing climate information products and services for the agriculture and food security sector in Southeast Asian countries, in support of CGIAR’s research program on climate change, agriculture and food security. Key activities included inventory and assessment of available climate information products and services, and of climate-related agricultural and food security […]

Countries :

Afghanistan Bangladesh Bhutan Cambodia India Indonesia Kenya Lao PDR Madagascar Maldives Mozambique Myanmar Nepal Pakistan Philippines Sri Lanka Tanzania Vietnam

Date : October 2013 – June 2014

The project reviewed and profiled existing climate information products and services for the agriculture and food security sector in Southeast Asian countries, in support of CGIAR’s research program on climate change, agriculture and food security. Key activities included inventory and assessment of available climate information products and services, and of climate-related agricultural and food security decision support tools; profiling of providers and users of climate information products and services; and documentation of institutional and farm level utilization of climate information

Complete Programs Evaluation of precipitation accumulation forecasts – SAsiaFFG

The project supports HRC in its development of a Flash Flood Guidance System for the South Asian region. The project focuses on evaluation/ verification of forecast precipitation accumulations from mesoscale numerical weather prediction models over the region, covering 1-, 3-, 6-, and 24-hour lead times, for identified basins, regions, and seasons.

Countries :

Bangladesh Bhutan India Nepal Regional Sri Lanka

Date : October 2017 – September 2018

The project supports HRC in its development of a Flash Flood Guidance System for the South Asian region. The project focuses on evaluation/ verification of forecast precipitation accumulations from mesoscale numerical weather prediction models over the region, covering 1-, 3-, 6-, and 24-hour lead times, for identified basins, regions, and seasons.

Complete Programs Capacity building on generation and application of downscaled climate change projections

The project aimed to build capacities of NMHSs in customizing regional climate projections, capacity building of sectoral users on interpretation and application of customized projections for risk analysis, and planning departments for integrating risk-informed adaptation into development planning processes. Key activities included training on generation of downscaled climate change projections; engagement with planning departments for […]

Countries :

Cambodia Lao PDR Myanmar Pakistan Sri Lanka

Date : November 2014 – September 2016

Donor : ESCAP

The project aimed to build capacities of NMHSs in customizing regional climate projections, capacity building of sectoral users on interpretation and application of customized projections for risk analysis, and planning departments for integrating risk-informed adaptation into development planning processes. Key activities included training on generation of downscaled climate change projections; engagement with planning departments for application; support for Monsoon Forums in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Pakistan

Ongoing Programs Program to Support South Asia Regional Development in Operational Forecasting and Service Delivery

This program aims to evolve a systematic capacity building process for NHMSs to integrate emerging climate /weather forecasting technologies and best practices into NHMs operations. Objectives Guide the South Asia Hydromet Forum (SAHF) process through review of their respective NMHSs modernization plans to identify common requirements to improve their forecasting systems and services Oversee the […]

Countries :

Afghanistan Bangladesh Bhutan India Maldives Nepal Pakistan Sri Lanka

Date : January 2000 – January 2022

Donor : World Bank

This program aims to evolve a systematic capacity building process for NHMSs to integrate emerging climate /weather forecasting technologies and best practices into NHMs operations.

Objectives

Guide the South Asia Hydromet Forum (SAHF) process through review of their respective NMHSs modernization plans to identify common requirements to improve their forecasting systems and services
Oversee the identified NHMS capacity gaps and needs are integrated into the program activities
Prioritize regional efforts that complement and reinforce national activities leading to a more sustainable program for development of meteorological and hydrological services throughout the region
Evolve collaborative regional strategies to increase the use of ensemble prediction, impact-based forecasting techniques and user-oriented advisory services
Guide strengthening of key elements of the service value chain and align capacity building activities to these requirements
Recommend actions to leverage capacities within the region to strengthen each other through collaborative dialogues, plans and experimental campaigns
Articulate the importance of the program to sectoral agencies/stakeholders for facilitating partnership with user sector for impact-based forecasting
Advocate for sustainability of this program and facilitate additional investments in improving forecasting and climate services
Ensure the activities planned under the program complement the on-going efforts by World Meteorological Organization and other International agencies without replication

Complete Programs Implementation of community-based disaster risk management in the dry zone of Myanmar

The project aimed to strengthen community capacity to respond to rapid and slow onset climate hazards through Community Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) initiatives in at least 70 villages in Myanmar’s dry zone. Key activities included: Selection of project villages; assessment of existing DRM arrangements; hazard, vulnerability and resource mapping; development and integration of the […]

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : August 2017 – February 2019

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to strengthen community capacity to respond to rapid and slow onset climate hazards through Community Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) initiatives in at least 70 villages in Myanmar’s dry zone.

Key activities included: Selection of project villages; assessment of existing DRM arrangements; hazard, vulnerability and resource mapping; development and integration of the System for Multi-Hazard Potential Impact Assessment and Emergency Response Tracking (SMART) decision support system with the Disaster Alert Notification application by the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement; establishment of Climate Risk Information Sub-Committees (CRIS) in the 5 project townships and CBDRM committees in the 70 project villages; training of CRIS and agency representatives from pilot townships and villages on forecast translation, risk communication and CBDRR; village level DRR planning and plan presentation to Township Disaster Management Committee and advocacy for its implementation; exercises to test information flow from national DMH and National Disaster Preparedness Central Committee to division/ district/ township Disaster Preparedness Committees, to CBDRM committees, and on to villagers; quarterly community meetings to review responses to forecasts; refresher trainings at township/ village levels

Ongoing Programs Strengthening early warning system in Cambodia to support climate-resilient development and adaptation to climate change (2020 -2025 Back up support)

The project aims to build capacity of: DOM to generate climate information at different timescales using NWP model and long-range statistical models DOH on basic and advanced hydrology Climate-sensitive sectors through Monsoon Forum process Farmers through FARM School Activities include: Training of trainers on basic and advanced NWP modeling and statistical model-based seasonal climate prediction […]

Countries :

Cambodia

Date : February 2019 – December 2019

Donor : UNDP

The project aims to build capacity of:
DOM to generate climate information at different timescales using NWP model and long-range statistical models
DOH on basic and advanced hydrology
Climate-sensitive sectors through Monsoon Forum process
Farmers through FARM School

Activities include:
Training of trainers on basic and advanced NWP modeling and statistical model-based seasonal climate prediction
Two basic training on meteorology for MOWRAM and PDOWRAM staffs
Customization of RIMES’ seasonal forecast system, and system transfer to and training of DOM
Two basic and advanced training on hydrology for MOWRAM and PDOWRAM
Enhancement of SESAME, with addition of drought monitoring module and dissemination systems by voice messaging and mobile application
Transfer of enhanced SESAME to DOA, including training of admin users
Training of trainers for DOA as expert users of SESAME
Two Monsoon Forums to train institutional users in applying seasonal forecast in sectoral planning
Write-shop for FARM School curriculum and module adaptation
Training of Trainers for DOA officials on FARM School
Training of farmers at pilot sites through FARM School
Progress monitoring, evaluation and reporting

Complete Programs Delivery and application of integrated meteorological and agricultural advisory services in Jessore, Satkhira, and Khulna in Bangladesh

The project aimed to ensure availability of weather forecasts and agro-advisories in 6 sub-districts of Jessore, Satkhira, and Khulna in Bangladesh, in support of Practical Action’s project on agricultural and water resilience in coastal areas of Bangladesh. Activities included: siting, acquisition and installation of 1 automatic weather station, including operation and maintenance training; customization of […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : February 2017 – July 2018

Donor : Practical Action

The project aimed to ensure availability of weather forecasts and agro-advisories in 6 sub-districts of Jessore, Satkhira, and Khulna in Bangladesh, in support of Practical Action’s project on agricultural and water resilience in coastal areas of Bangladesh. Activities included: siting, acquisition and installation of 1 automatic weather station, including operation and maintenance training; customization of RIMES agro-meteorological advisory system to include the pilot areas; linking voice SMS and in-call services to the agro-advisory expert system for dissemination of advisories; and training of staff of Department of Agricultural Extension, Department of Fisheries, Practical Action and its partners for piloting application of advisories.

Complete Programs Climate risk management course delivery

The project aimed to build capacity of UNDP country personnel in South and Southeast Asian regions on managing climate risks. Key activities included organization and technical inputs to the delivery of the climate risk management course, targeting UNDP country office personnel of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Indonesia, India, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste; […]

Countries :

Regional

Date : December 1899 – November 2010

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to build capacity of UNDP country personnel in South and Southeast Asian regions on managing climate risks. Key activities included organization and technical inputs to the delivery of the climate risk management course, targeting UNDP country office personnel of Bangladesh, Bhutan, Indonesia, India, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste; course evaluation and curriculum and module refinement; and post training impact evaluation.

Complete Programs Data support to the project on development of alternative forecasted short-range rainfall and capability improvement of reservoir operation optimization

The project provided data support to Asian Institute of Technology for its project on “Development of alternative forecasted short-range rainfall and capability improvement of reservoir operation optimization”. RIMES provided rainfall forecast data in digital and graphic files for the period Aug 2008 – Jun 2013.

Countries :

Thailand

Date : August 2008 – June 2013

The project provided data support to Asian Institute of Technology for its project on “Development of alternative forecasted short-range rainfall and capability improvement of reservoir operation optimization”. RIMES provided rainfall forecast data in digital and graphic files for the period Aug 2008 – Jun 2013.

Complete Programs Establishment of automated weather information system at CCDB Climate Technology Park

The project acquired and installed a WMO-compliant automatic weather station at CCDB’s Climate Technology Park, and developed a web application for weather observation data collection.

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : November 2017 – January 2018

Donor : Christian Commission for Deve-lopment in Bangladesh (CCDB)

The project acquired and installed a WMO-compliant automatic weather station at CCDB’s Climate Technology Park, and developed a web application for weather observation data collection.

Complete Programs IRRI real-time crop monitoring and policy information and response platform on climate change and rice in ASEAN and its Member Countries

The project supported IRRI’s programs on real-time crop monitoring and policy information and response platform on climate change and rice in ASEAN and its Member Countries. Key activities included provision of relevant climate data and weather information products; and technical inputs to establishment of comprehensive information system for climate information-based early warning system in rice […]

Countries :

Cambodia Indonesia Lao PDR Myanmar Philippines Thailand Vietnam

Date : November 2014 – November 2017

The project supported IRRI’s programs on real-time crop monitoring and policy information and response platform on climate change and rice in ASEAN and its Member Countries. Key activities included provision of relevant climate data and weather information products; and technical inputs to establishment of comprehensive information system for climate information-based early warning system in rice producing countries in Asia, and in the development of comprehensive engagement strategy for integrating and mainstreaming climate information-based early warning system into policy and practice in ASEAN Member States.

Ongoing Programs Iraq: Training and Capacity Assessment on Early Warning Systems for Drought and other hazards

Countries :

Iraq

Date : March 2022 – August 2022

Donor : UNDP

Complete Programs Organization of SASCOF-7

The project assisted WMO in organizing the 7th session of the South Asian Climate Outlook Forum (SASCOF-7) and the 1st session of the South Asian Climate Services user Forum for Agriculture (CSUF-Ag1). Key activities included forum preparations, development and issue of a consensus-based climate outlook statement for 2015-2016 winter season over South Asia, and documentation.

Countries :

Regional

Date : August 2015 – October 2015

Donor : WMO

The project assisted WMO in organizing the 7th session of the South Asian Climate Outlook Forum (SASCOF-7) and the 1st session of the South Asian Climate Services user Forum for Agriculture (CSUF-Ag1). Key activities included forum preparations, development and issue of a consensus-based climate outlook statement for 2015-2016 winter season over South Asia, and documentation.

Complete Programs Establishment of 17 telemetered agrometeorological stations, and telemetry of 2 seismic stations

This project helped in modernizing the agro-meteorological observing and monitoring system of Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH). Key activities included site selection and survey; equipment acquisition; station installations and telemetry; integration into DMH systems; and onsite training on operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : June 2013 – December 2015

Donor : ESCAP

This project helped in modernizing the agro-meteorological observing and monitoring system of Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH).

Key activities included site selection and survey; equipment acquisition; station installations and telemetry; integration into DMH systems; and onsite training on operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Complete Programs Integrating climate information and decision processes for regional climate resilience

RIMES supported Columbia University in implementing the project in Bihar, India, particularly: Development of Farmer Field School Curriculum Training of Trainers Training of farmers Research support: Bihar climatology, contributing to identification of suitable forecast products for Bihar context Bihar agro-ecosystem and impact of weather events and their impacts on plant, pest and diseases, and plant […]

Date : April 2018 – August 2018

RIMES supported Columbia University in implementing the project in Bihar, India, particularly: Development of Farmer Field School Curriculum Training of Trainers Training of farmers Research support: Bihar climatology, contributing to identification of suitable forecast products for Bihar context Bihar agro-ecosystem and impact of weather events and their impacts on plant, pest and diseases, and plant growth; identification of input requirements based on weather conditions; and development of suitable planting strategies based on available weather/ climate forecasts

Complete Programs Regional technical support for reducing ENSO impact to human development in the Asia-Pacific region

The project aims to develop capacity of UNDP professional staffs in the Asia-Pacific region on assessment of ENSO societal impacts to generate evidence for DRR and recovery programs. Key activities include preparation of analytical framework for assessment of ENSO impacts on societal systems, development of assessment methodology, design and inputs to delivery of training workshop […]

Countries :

Regional

Date : February 2016 – June 2016

Donor : UNDP

The project aims to develop capacity of UNDP professional staffs in the Asia-Pacific region on assessment of ENSO societal impacts to generate evidence for DRR and recovery programs. Key activities include preparation of analytical framework for assessment of ENSO impacts on societal systems, development of assessment methodology, design and inputs to delivery of training workshop on the assessment methodology.

Complete Programs Customizing Specialized Expert System for Agro-meteorological Early Warning for Fiji

The project contributed to FAO’s objective to strengthen capacity of member countries on good practices in knowledge exchange, information sharing, and gender, in support of rural livelihoods. The project involved customization of RIMES’ Specialized Expert System for Agro-meteorological Early Warning, incorporating climate and crop data, specific to Fiji, and preparation of training modules for admin […]

Countries :

Fiji

Date : October 2017 – December 2017

Donor : FAO

The project contributed to FAO’s objective to strengthen capacity of member countries on good practices in knowledge exchange, information sharing, and gender, in support of rural livelihoods. The project involved customization of RIMES’ Specialized Expert System for Agro-meteorological Early Warning, incorporating climate and crop data, specific to Fiji, and preparation of training modules for admin and end users.

Complete Programs Consultant on flood management

The project developed materials for and delivered a regional training on flood forecasting in transboundary river basins.

Countries :

Regional

Date : September 2016 – October 2016

Donor : ESCAP

The project developed materials for and delivered a regional training on flood forecasting in transboundary river basins.

Ongoing Programs Development and implementation of the System for Multi-Hazard Potential Impact Assessment and Emergency Response Tracking (SMART) (1 year for system development, 5 years for maintenance)

The project shall develop and implement an expert system for analyzing potential impacts from various hazards using weather forecast information, and for evaluating, generating, and disseminating impact management options. The system also acts as data management system for managing and processing weather, disaster, risk, and emergency response resource data for use by the Revenue Administration, […]

Countries :

India

Date : March 2018 – February 2024

Donor : Government of Tamil Nadu, India

The project shall develop and implement an expert system for analyzing potential impacts from various hazards using weather forecast information, and for evaluating, generating, and disseminating impact management options. The system also acts as data management system for managing and processing weather, disaster, risk, and emergency response resource data for use by the Revenue Administration, Disaster Management and Mitigation Department. Key activities include:

The project aimed at development of an expert system for analysing potential impacts from various hazards using weather forecast information, and for evaluating, generating, and disseminating impact management options. The system also acts as data management system for managing and processing weather, disaster, risk, and emergency response resource data for use by the Revenue Administration, Disaster Management and Mitigation Department.
In 2020, RIMES operational team at Commissionerate of Revenue Administration and Disaster Management, provided operational and maintenance support to TNSMART. Also, the On-Site unit provided capacity building support to the Government to ensure the data flow from various administrative level to the centralized system

Big data analytics,
Machine learning algorithm, Artificial Intelligence, Geospatial Systems,
Remote Sensing – Satellite Imageries (Inundation, NDVI), UAV, LIDAR,
Telemetry (Real time data – rainfall and water level), SMART Mobile
Application, to better understand the disaster risks for having better
preparedness and policy making for risk reduction

Expert system for analyzing potential impacts from various hazards using weather forecast information, and for evaluating, generating, and disseminating impact management options. The system also acts as data management system for managing and processing weather, disaster, risk, and emergency response resource data for use by the Revenue Administration, Disaster Management and Mitigation Department. Key activities include:

Development of the weather forecasting subsystem, consisting of:
an ensemble forecasting platform, comprising of products from RIMES’ customized WRF model, ECMWF, JMA, IMD, UKMet, etc.
a robust verification mechanism platform to critically evaluate the performance of all forecast sources
a window for real-time validation of forecast products with reference to observed data, applying WMO guidelines
Development of risk assessment and mapping subsystem that:
is based on site-specific thresholds derived from historical records of extreme events and hazards
allows for once in 3 years participatory dynamic risk assessment, noting changing exposure, vulnerability, and land use
Development of emergency response resource subsystem that:
integrates national-level GIS datasets from the National Database for Emergency Management, developed by the National Remote Sensing Center
integrates Sahana platform as complementary tool
includes contour maps from survey of India topo-sheets, and DEM from UAV-based aerial photogrammetry
Development of dissemination and feedback system that includes:
Tamil Nadu Government’s alarm-/ voice-based warning
Mobile application for alert dissemination
Tracking of alert and responses to it
User response monitoring and feedback evaluation
Disaster documentation for system benchmarking and validation of advisories
Incorporation of drought forecasting
Updating of SOPs
Capacity development of users on updated SOPs
TN-SMART transfer
Direct operational support to Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority for TN-SMART tool operation, until system is fully integrated into TNSDMA operations

Complete Programs Strengthening of Myanmar Multi-Hazard Early Warning System

The project assisted Myanmar’s DMH in developing a capacity building program document to guide DMH engagements with donors, and addresses capacity gaps in earthquake monitoring, tsunami warning, and generation and application of agro-meteorological products and services. Key activities included development of capacity building framework: identification of current capacity gaps vis-à-vis minimum and optimum capacity requirements, […]

Countries :

Myanmar

Date : June 2013 – November 2014

Donor : ESCAP

The project assisted Myanmar’s DMH in developing a capacity building program document to guide DMH engagements with donors, and addresses capacity gaps in earthquake monitoring, tsunami warning, and generation and application of agro-meteorological products and services. Key activities included development of capacity building framework: identification of current capacity gaps vis-à-vis minimum and optimum capacity requirements, from generation to application of warning information and services; telemetry of existing seismic stations; capacity building on earthquake and sea level data acquisition and evaluations; harmonization of seismic observation systems into one data platform; drills on SOP-based tsunami warning; development and implementation of, and users training on geospatial database for multi-hazard risk assessment, and of web-based agro-advisory expert system; updating of agro-ecological zone map, crop-weather calendars, and agro-meteorological bulletins; upgrading of agro-meteorological observing and monitoring network; and establishment of climate field schools.

Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) is the government agency mandated to observe, analyze, predict, and provide warning services for weather- and climate-related hazards, including hazards of geologic and oceanic origins. Donor support has contributed significantly to improving DMH provision of these services, but with recent political and economic changes, inflow of external support could overwhelm DMH, in the absence of a framework for coherent, integrated, efficient, and effective engagement with donors. This project aims to assist DMH in developing a capacity building program framework for addressing capacity gaps, as well as fill immediate capacity gaps in earthquake monitoring and tsunami warning, and decision-support tools for disaster risk management.
Objectives:

Synergy in donor assistance for DMH capacity building
A National Earthquake and Data Center (NEDC) that meets UNESCO/IOC standards for national tsunami warning centers
Reduced disaster risks through users‚Äô increased uptake of warning information

Activities:

Synergy in donor assistance for DMH capacity building
Report: DMH Capacity Assessment in Seismology
Report: DMH Capacity Assessment in Meteorology
Report: DMH Capacity Assessment in Agrometeorology
A National Earthquake and Data Center (NEDC) that meets UNESCO/IOC standards for national tsunami warning centers
Report: 1st NEDC SOP Testing Report
Report: SeisComP Training
Report: Tide Tool Training
Report: ShakeCast Training

Reduced disaster risks through users‚Äô increased uptake of warning information

RIMES shall assist DMH and the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation (MOAI) in implementing key recommendations of the 9th Monsoon Forum in Naypyitaw in October 2012, in particular the development of tools to support users of weather and climate information: an updated agro-ecological zone map for Myanmar, crop-weather calendars that take into consideration the climate pattern in the past decades, agro-meteorological bulletin that integrates crop development stage, expert system for translating weather and climate information into potential impacts and management options, and pilot Climate Risk Management Field Schools to introduce farmers to the use of science-based information in decision-making. Upgrade of the country‚agro-meteorological network shall support these initiatives.
In addition, building on ESCAP‚project on geospatial information system for disaster risk preparedness in the Asia-Pacific region, RIMES shall assist DMH in developing a web-based geospatial database, for disaster risk management applications, with application demonstration in earthquake risk assessment, using U.S. Geological Survey‚ShakeCast, an online tool for rapid assessment of risks to populations, buildings, and other critical facilities from real-time earthquakes, with automated notification to registered users.
Expected Outcomes and Performance Measures:

Synergy in donor assistance for DMH capacity building

¬ª¬†DMH capacity building program document
¬ª¬†Warning system design and specifications

NEDC meets UNESCO/IOC standards for NTWCs

¬ª¬†VSat telemetry in 2 remote stations
¬ª¬†3 seismic stations registered with IRIS
¬ª¬†Dedicated GTS client server
¬ª¬†At least 5 staffs trained in SeisComP3, Tide Tool and GTS, and practiced on EQ and tsunami evaluations and SOP-based generation and dissemination of warnings

Reduced disaster risks through users‚Äô increased uptake of warning information

¬ª¬†Geospatial database and customized ShakeCast installed at DMH and available on DMH website
¬ª¬†At least 5 DMH personnel trained on geospatial database and ShakeCast O&M, further development, and application
¬ª¬†Myanmar agro-ecological zone map
¬ª¬†Crop-weather calendars for major crops
¬ª¬†Agro-meteorological bulletin that integrates crop development stage
¬ª¬†17 agro-meteorological stations with automatic data recording and transmission
¬ª¬†Upgraded facility at DMH for receiving agro-met data from remote stations
¬ª¬†Web-based agro-advisory expert system at DMH, linked to MOAI website
¬ª¬†Users manual on Ag-ADE
¬ª¬†At least 3 DMH personnel trained on Ag-ADE O&M and further development
¬ª¬†More than 20 MoAI, RRD, and GAD staffs at pilot sites trained on Ag-ADE
¬ª¬†Adapted CRM Field School curriculum
¬ª¬†At least 4 trainers for CRM Field School
¬ª¬†More than 60 farmers trained on forecast-based decision-making

External Connections:
The project builds on ongoing efforts from UNESCO/IOC and WMO in Myanmar. RIMES and DMH shall involve other external partners, by informing them about the project and by getting their feedback on how they could contribute, including the linking of project outputs with their ongoing and planned programs and activities:

¬ª¬†UNDP, JICA, TICA, and other development partners on the development of the capacity building program document; initial matching of donor priorities with DMH priorities could be made
¬ª¬†USGS, CEA, IRIS, CTBTO, CISN, the Government of India, and other relevant institutions that have been or are going to be involved in seismic system capacity building
¬ª¬†FAO, WMO, and the European Center for Medium-range Weather Forecast (ECMWF) on development of tools for improving utilization of weather and climate forecasts

Project Partners/Beneficiaries:

Department of Meteorology and Hydrology
Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation
Relief and Resettlement Department
General Administration Department
Farming communities at the pilot sites

Information Resources:

Project Fact-sheet
Poster
Report: Training on Weather Research Forecasting (WRF) Model
Installation, Operation, and Maintenance
Photo Gallery

¬†

Complete Programs Reducing risks of tsunami, storm surges, large waves, and other natural hazards in low elevation coastal zones

About 3% of Asia’s land area is classified as a low elevation coastal zone, yet it is home to 13% of the region’s population and 18% of its urban population. Of the top 10 countries in the world with the largest population counts in low elevation coastal zones, eight are in Asia. Reducing risks through […]

Date : May 2011 – April 2014

Donor : ESCAP

About 3% of Asia’s land area is classified as a low elevation coastal zone, yet it is home to 13% of the region’s population and 18% of its urban population. Of the top 10 countries in the world with the largest population counts in low elevation coastal zones, eight are in Asia. Reducing risks through preparedness and mitigation is paramount, as migration away from these zones, though may be the most appropriate prevention measure, is not popular or acceptable. The project aims to reduce tsunami, storm surges, large waves, and other hazard risks in low-elevation coastal zones by strengthening institutional systems for end-to-end warning and building institutional capacities for the application of warning information products in decision-making.

Objectives:

Strength institutional systems for end-to-end warning
Build institutional capacities for the application of warning information products in decision-making

Activities:

Strengthening institutional systems for end-to-end warning
Connecting pilot communities to a national early warning system for 24/7 readiness
Capacity building for the application of warning information products
Capacity building for the generation of location-specific warning information products
Regional sharing of experience, practice, lessons, and successes

Expected Outcomes and Performance Measures:

Monsoon Forum Reports

Regular multi-stakeholder national forums gather information and assess disaster risk management and emergency preparedness capacities in participating countries, and assist them in planning at national to local levels to reduce risks, through the development of a basic set of standard operating procedures between the NMHSs, other stakeholders, and communities at risk.

» A multi-stakeholder early warning national forum established in each target country

» Number of multi-stakeholder national forums organized, with the participation of and recommendations from local institutions and authorities, NGOs and representatives from select at-risk communities

» Number of visits made in each select community, and wider user feedback received
Bangladesh
Bangladesh-3th Monsoon Forum Bangladesh-4th Monsoon Forum Bangladesh-5th Monsoon Forum Maldives
Maldives-First Monsoon Forum Myanmar
Myanmar-7th Monsoon Forum Myanmar-8th Monsoon Forum Myanmar-9th Monsoon Forum Myanmar-10th Monsoon Forum Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka-4th Monsoon Forum Sri Lanka-5th Monsoon Forum Sri Lanka-6th Monsoon Forum Sri Lanka-7th Monsoon Forum
Selected communities at-risk are connected to the warning system, with institutional capacity to receive and disseminate warnings 24/7 through effective communication pathways and to respond to emergencies.

» Number of warning points connected to the early warning system at sub-national and national levels

» Number of EOC volunteers trained in emergency operations

» Number of communication pathways for receiving and disseminating warnings established at each EOC, and tested
Selected communities at-risk use location-specific warning information products.

» Number of sub-national and local working groups established

» Number of local working groups trained in impact, vulnerability, capacity and user need assessments

» Number of demonstration locations with risk profiles prepared

» Thresholds for various hazard magnitudes and intensities in sites identified

» Warning information needs in communities identified

» Number of disaster managers trained in preparing impact outlooks and response options based on localized disaster risk information

Report: Forecast Translation Training-Bangladesh

Report: Forecast Translation Training-Maldives

Report: Forecast Translation Training-Myanmar

Report: Forecast Translation Training-Sri Lanka

» Number of communities demonstrated to improve response to warning/ disaster risk information issued by NMHSs

» Warning system gaps identified in locations
Generation of location-specific warning information products, through the established WMO infrastructure including the RSMCs, with support from trained government institutions and local disaster management organizations.

» Most relevant NWP techniques and products identified and analyzed for further cascading forecasting process

» Data and products assessed as inputs for downscaling and documented

» Uncertainties in forecasting products evaluated and documented for local application

» Downscaled high-resolution disaster risk information generated and used by disaster management institutions in assessing potential impacts and possible response options

» NMHS scientists from each target country demonstrate ability to produce tailored location-specific disaster risk information
Countries in the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia, which are not targeted by the project, learning from project experience, lessons and successes, express interest to replicate methods and tools.

» Number of countries that participate each year, and share which tool, method, practice, etc. may be replicated

» Number of country reports shared with ICG/IOTWS

» Number of institutions informed of project progress, experiences and lessons

External Connections:

The project is implemented together with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). It builds on ongoing efforts in the target countries, such as by UNESCO/IOC on developing tsunami standard operating procedures in Myanmar, and UNDP on the establishment of Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) and last-mile preparedness in small island communities in the Maldives.

Project Partners/Beneficiaries:

Bangladesh

» Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD)
India

» India Meteorological Department (IMD)
Maldives

» Maldives Department of Meteorology (DoM)
Myanmar

» Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH)
Sri Lanka

» Sri Lanka Department of Meteorology (DoM)

» Sri Lanka Disaster Management Centre of Sri Lanka (DMC)
Thailand

» Thai Meteorological Department (TMD)

» Thailand’s National Disaster Warning Center (NDWC)

Information Resources:

Poster Photo Gallery e-Newsletter (Issue 1: October 2013) Video about Monsoon Forum

Complete Programs Piloting of Bay of Bengal cyclones and depression tracks and landfall for enhanced accuracy and improved lead time for disaster risk reduction in Nobo Jibon Program areas, Bangladesh

The project aims to improve cyclone and flood early warning and preparedness to enhance livelihood security in vulnerable communities of Bangladesh. Strengthening household capacity for cyclone and flood preparedness is one of the program‚strategies of‚Nobo Jibon, a five-year food security program, jointly funded by USAID and the Government of Bangladesh, that seeks to reduce food […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : October 2011 – June 2015

Donor : Save the Children/USAID

The project aims to improve cyclone and flood early warning and preparedness to enhance livelihood security in vulnerable communities of Bangladesh. Strengthening household capacity for cyclone and flood preparedness is one of the program‚strategies of‚Nobo Jibon, a five-year food security program, jointly funded by USAID and the Government of Bangladesh, that seeks to reduce food insecurity and vulnerability to natural disasters in eleven upazillas of the Barisal Division. Save the Children manages the program in close partnership with other organizations.

Objectives:

Develop Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) capacity to forecast, up to 7 days in advance, cyclone formation, track, and landfall, including associated surge and rainfall, with a 9km resolution
Enhance BMD capacity in forecasting coastal inundation from surge and heavy rainfall that are associated with cyclones
Demonstrate the use of these experimental forecasts in reducing disaster risks in Barisal Division in southern Bangladesh

Activities:

Concurrent monitoring of depressions, cyclone formation and tracking
Pre-impact assessment tool development and capacity building
Pilot application of technology

Expected Outcomes and Performance Measures:

Technology development.

Continuous monitoring of depressions and cyclone formation at the Bay of Bengal, including other severe weather events
Customization of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) meso-scale model, combining risk thresholds and user requirements Establishment at BMD of 9km x 9km resolution cyclone tracking system using WRF model
Enhancement of storm surge forecasting using Japan Meteorological Agency‚Medium Range Forecast (JMA-MRF) model
Development of coastal inundation model that integrates GIS layers and storm surge model outputs
Development of risk-based decision-support system (DSS) for potential impact assessment Demonstration of technology application.
Demonstrations in 5 coastal unions for the application of risk-based warning information in decision-making

Technology transfer and capacity building. Models are transferred to BMD and FFWC Number of BMD and the Flood Forecasting and Warning Center (FFWC) staff trained on the use of models developed under the project Number of National and local level institutions, including CPP volunteers and local NGOs, trained to translate forecast information into impact outlooks and menu of response options Number of Save the Children staff and partner NGO, farmers, and Upazila Disaster Management Committee members trained on forecast products for weather, cyclone, storm surge, and coastal inundation, agro-meteorological forecast products, DSS tool, and their application in planning and decision-making, including data archiving and GIS-based risk mapping. Establishment of model EOC at union level External Connections: Nobo Jibon is a five-year food security program, jointly funded by USAID and the Government of Bangladesh, which seeks to reduce food insecurity and vulnerability to natural disasters in eleven upazillas of the Barisal Division. Save the Children manages the program in close partnership with: RIMES, Helen Keller International, WorldFish Cen-ter, and International Development Enterprises, and local implementing partners SpeedTrust, Gono Unnayan Prochesta, Community Development Center, and South Asia Partnership Bangladesh. Project Partners/Beneficiaries: Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) Flood Forecasting and Warning Center (FFWC) Upazila Disaster Management Committee Save the Children and partner NGOs Farmers

Complete Programs Enhancing early warning system for community-based response in Bangladesh under SHOUHARDO- II

The project aims to enhance the lead time for flood early warning and preparedness in Bangladesh by expanding the generation and application of long-lead probabilistic flood forecast warning information to larger areas in Bangladesh, operationalizing 20-25 days and seasonal forecasts in pilot areas, piloting the flash flood early warning system, and complementing CARE Bangladesh work in […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : April 2012 – September 2014

Donor : CARE/USAID

The project aims to enhance the lead time for flood early warning and preparedness in Bangladesh by expanding the generation and application of long-lead probabilistic flood forecast warning information to larger areas in Bangladesh, operationalizing 20-25 days and seasonal forecasts in pilot areas, piloting the flash flood early warning system, and complementing CARE Bangladesh work in cyclone-prone areas.

Objectives:

Expanding the 1-10 days flood forecasting to larger pilot areas (under CARE SHOUHARDO II program areas)
Operationalizing monthly and seasonal forecasts
Piloting flash flood early warning system at Sunamgang and Cox’Bazaar area
Complementing existing cyclone prediction program of Bangladesh Meteorological Department

Key Activities:

Expand 1-10 day flood forecasts
Pilot flash flood forecasting and application
Operationalize 20-25 day and seasonal forecast

Expected Outcomes and Performance Measures

1. Technology development:

Operational medium range (1-10 days) flood forecasting at three major rivers (Brahmaputra, Ganges and Megna) basin with 38 water level stations
Operational long range (20-25 days) flood outlook
Operational flash flood forecast
Development of web based DSS for flood risk management for FFWC

2. Demonstration of technology application is indicated by the number of:

FFWC staff trained on newly evolved forecasts system
Communities to receive warning, interpret and response on medium range forecasts, long range (20-25 days) range forecasts and flash flood forecast

3. Technology transfer and capacity building:

Transfer of models to FFWC
Number of FFWC staff trained on the use of models developed under the project
Number of national and local level institutions, including DMB, DAE, CARE Bangladesh and local NGOs trained to translate forecast information into impact outlooks and selection of response options
Number of BWDB staff and partner NGO, farmers, and Upazila Disaster Management Committee members trained on probabilistic flood forecast, DSS tool, and their application in planning and decision-making, including data archiving and GIS-based risk mapping.
Enhancement of observation system to increase data availability for forecasting and warning

In light of the SHOUHARDO Program Phase I, the SHOUHARDO Phase II expanded on the long lead probabilistic flood forecasts warning information to larger areas, with the support of USAID, the Government of Bangladesh and CARE Bangladesh.

RIMES implemented this project supporting the Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) to carry out the long lead flood forecast activities once the project is finalized, promoting its sustainability.

Project Partners/Beneficiaries:

Flood Forecasting and Warning Center (FFWC)
Bangladesh Water Development Board
Disaster Management Bureau
Department of Agricultural Extension
Upazila Disaster Management Committee
CARE and local NGOs
Farmers

Complete Programs Enhancing coastal hazard early warning and response: tools and institutional strengthening

The project aimed at building tsunami risk assessment capacities in Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Key activities included on-the-job training on near-shore bathymetric, topographic, and exposure surveys; training on tsunami hazard and risk assessment using RIMES’ web-based tool for tsunami risk assessment (named INSPIRE); training on evacuation mapping using RIMES’ web-based tool for evacuation […]

Countries :

Myanmar Philippines Sri Lanka Thailand

Date : July 2012 – June 2014

Donor : ESCAP

The project aimed at building tsunami risk assessment capacities in Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Key activities included on-the-job training on near-shore bathymetric, topographic, and exposure surveys; training on tsunami hazard and risk assessment using RIMES’ web-based tool for tsunami risk assessment (named INSPIRE); training on evacuation mapping using RIMES’ web-based tool for evacuation planning (named ESCAPE); transfer of methodologies and equipment; local level drill to test ESCAPE outputs; and strengthening of regional resource sharing mechanism The project aims to strengthen early warning and response systems for tsunami and extreme weather events in Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, through building tsunami hazard and risk assessment capacities of relevant government departments, and developing a regional data sharing policy for RIMES Member States and collaborating countries that allows to improve data availability for warning purposes. Key activities include trainings, demonstrations of tool application; and transfer of equipment, software and systems. Objectives: Build tsunami hazard and risk assessment capacities in Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, building on UNESCO/IOC efforts in the Indian Ocean region and taking advantage of low-cost methodologies developed at RIMES Develop a regional data sharing policy for RIMES Member States and collaborating countries, in order to improve data availability for warning purposes Activities: Project initiation Training on near-shore field surveys Survey Report: Philippines Survey Report: Sri Lanka Training on survey data processing and DEM generation Report: Training on Survey data processing- Philippines Report: DEM generation-methods and outputs- Philippines Report: Training on Survey data processing- Sri Lanka Report: DEM generation-methods and outputs- Sri Lanka Training on tsunami risk assessment and evacuation mapping Report: INSPIRE-ESCAPE Training- Philippines Exercise manual adaptation and evacuation map testing Regional resource sharing policy and mechanism development Expected Outcomes and Performance Measures: Tsunami risk assessment capacities built within relevant/mandated technical agencies. Number trained in near-shore bathymetric, topographic, and exposure surveys Number trained in data preparation and management Number trained in tsunami hazard and risk assessment Number of agencies that received survey methodology, equipment, and materials, and software for data preparation Number of agencies that received INSPIRE system Improved tsunami warning and response capabilities within national tsunami warning centers and disaster management organizations and communities. Number trained in interpretation and use of tsunami risk maps Number trained in data preparation and management, and evacuation mapping using ESCAPE Number practiced in tsunami evacuation using ESCAPE outputs and UNESCO/IOC guidelines Number of NDMOS that received ESCAPE system and manual on multi-hazard exercise planning, implementation, and evaluation Regional resource sharing for improved warning information generation and dissemination. Regional data sharing policy and mechanism Mechanism for regional online interaction of forecasters during extreme events Number of countries, not covered by the project, that learn from project experiences and identify activities and funding sources for replication External Connections: The project builds on UNESCO/IOC‚project on Improving Emergency Response to Ocean-Based Extreme Events through Coastal Mapping Capacity Building in the Indian Ocean (COAST MAP-IO). Project Partners/Beneficiaries: Myanmar ¬ª¬†Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (focal point) ¬ª¬†National Hydrographic Center ¬ª¬†Department of Land Survey ¬ª¬†Relief and Resettlement Department ¬ª¬†General Administration Department Philippines ¬ª¬†Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology (focal point) ¬ª¬†National Mapping and Resource Information Authority ¬ª¬†National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Sri Lanka ¬ª¬†Disaster Management Center (focal point) ¬ª¬†Department of Meteorology ¬ª¬†National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency ¬ª¬†Survey Department ¬ª¬†Coast Conservation Department Thailand ¬ª¬†Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Information Resources: Project Fact-sheet Poster e-Newsletter (Issue 1: July 2013) Photo Gallery ¬†

Complete Programs Development and Implementation of an Integrated Ocean Information System for Indian Ocean Countries

Locally relevant and high resolution coastal hazard and risk assessment on tsunami and storm surge, requires local bathymetric and topographic and exposure datasets, with capacity to generate customized ocean forecast information and mechanism for forecast validation for reducing risks. Ocean information is critical for effective management of maritime activities, such as shipping, marine recreation, fisheries, […]

Countries :

Comoros Mauritius Mozambique Tanzania

Date : December 2013 – December 2016

Locally relevant and high resolution coastal hazard and risk assessment on tsunami and storm surge, requires local bathymetric and topographic and exposure datasets, with capacity to generate customized ocean forecast information and mechanism for forecast validation for reducing risks.

Ocean information is critical for effective management of maritime activities, such as shipping, marine recreation, fisheries, and disaster preparedness in the islands and coastal regions. Most RIMES Member States in the Indian Ocean have access only to forecasts at coarse resolutions (global and regional scales), which are hardly interpreted and operationally used by user agencies in the countries.

The project on Development and Implementation of an Integrated Ocean Information System for Indian Ocean Countries is supported financially and technically by the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), which serves as a Regional Tsunami Watch Provider (RTWP) for Indian Ocean Countries under UNESCO/IOC framework.

RIMES provides a continuous 3-day forecast on wave, swell, current, wind direction and speed for countries in the Indian Ocean region. Ocean models developed by INCOIS are validated by using real-time observational data from tide gauges, buoys, satellites and feedback from users. Additionally, OSFAS also provides information on weather forecasts and generates localised advisories to guide planning activities.

The system employs tools to generate forecasts, tsunami and ocean state models and automate assessment of risk from forecasted events. Forecast information is translated into actionable useful information such as advisories to provide guidance on how to manage potential impacts. Advisories are disseminated through various channels such as websites, emails, sms packs to national focal points.

In addition to tsunami forecasts, the system is also able to generate impact-based forecasts online through the generation of an inundation model linked to INSPIRE – an internet based simulation platform for inundation and risk evaluation. The system offers a comprehensive loss estimation assessment for potential damage to lives and infrastructure.
The project addresses expressed needs and demands of RIMES Member States and collaborating countries for tsunami warning and inundation information, meeting UNESCO/IOC IOTWS Service Level 3 requirements, as well as an integrated ocean information service, including ocean state forecasts, for their user agencies.

Phase 1 was implemented in 4 countries: Comoros, Mauritius, Mozambique and Tanzania, while the subsequent phases covered all RIMES Member States and Collaborating Countries along the Indian Ocean.

Objective:

Enhanced near-shore bathymetric, topographic, and exposure datasets for undertaking tsunami risk assessment as per IOTWS Service Level 3 requirements
Capacity building for application of customized ocean/marine forecast information
Capacity building for tsunami risk assessment
Capacity building for improved warning response and preparedness

Activities and outcomes

Generation of seamless multi-source near-shore bathymetry, topography exposure dataset
This project demonstrates the methodology to collect, analyze, and process coastal datasets of differing formats, projections, resolutions, accuracies, and datums, for generating seamless near-shore bathymetry-topography-exposure datasets for tsunami risk assessment.

Customization of Ocean/Marine Forecast Information
Existing data and updated local bathymetric data would be integrated by INCOIS into its forecasting system to generate desired products for a range of users -locally and regionally- in each country. These products include 72-hour wave and swell height, direction and period, sea surface currents, sea surface temperature, mixed layer depth, depth of the 20 degree isotherm (as a measure of thermocline), wind speed, and tide prediction from INCOIS‚IIndian Ocean Forecast System (INDOFOS). Additionally, information from INCOIS‚ Marine Fishery Advisory (information derived from satellite images and Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories) and Coral Reef Mapping and Reef Health Monitoring (information derived from satellite images and Coral Bleaching Alert System) could also be provided.

RIMES also works closely with national agencies to integrate all locally available real-/near real-time ocean observations into a regional server that INCOIS could use for forecast verification and modeling purposes. RIMES Member States and Collaborating Countries, with support from RIMES, facilitated user feedback on forecast information generated by INCOIS, to guide for further improvements.

Development of real time tsunami inundation simulation and loss estimation system (IOTWS Service Level 3 program)
Real-time tsunami inundation simulation and loss estimation system shall be developed at RIMES to assist countries in the analysis of risks from tsunamigenic earthquake events. A Web Map Service (WMS) will be customized to store geo-referenced vulnerability database, which shall be built from field survey data, and display tsunami inundation map from real-time simulations. Using inundation depth forecast and exposure data, the system shall analyze potential impact on population and infrastructure. Estimates of potential loss and damage shall be based on the tsunami vulnerability function concept.

Capacity building on tsunami risk assessment and evacuation planning
RIMES built tsunami risk assessment capacity through training, and demonstration and transfer of tools developed at RIMES:
i) INSPIRE, a computer-based tsunami propagation and inundation risk assessment tool, which calculates and maps tsunami travel time, amplitude, and current velocity, and probabilities of human death and building damage
ii) ESCAPE, a computer-based tool that integrates INSPIRE outputs into evacuation planning, which calculates and maps the fastest evacuation route, taking into consideration decelerating factors, such as land use, water dynamics, etc.

This project also builds on the learning and experience from an ESCAP-supported capacity building project in Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand for generating bathymetric, topographic and exposure data through cost-effective means and to utilize these data to generate tsunami risk assessment information, for meeting IOTWS Service Level 3 requirements.

Projects sorted by Program Area

In order to achieve RIMES’ long term goal -forearmed, forewarned and resilient communities-, the development of basic early warning capacity in each Member State is needed first. For that purpose, RIMES Master Plan defines five strategic components for the period 2010-2014. In this section, projects implemented by RIMES under each of these five areas can […]

In order to achieve RIMES’ long term goal -forearmed, forewarned and resilient communities-, the development of basic early warning capacity in each Member State is needed first. For that purpose, RIMES Master Plan defines five strategic components for the period 2010-2014. In this section, projects implemented by RIMES under each of these five areas can be found:

Countries covered by RIMES’ projects

Complete Programs Strengthening early warning systems for extreme weather events to advance climate risk management in the Southeast Asian region

The project aims to strengthen capacities to manage extreme weather events through the development of standard operating procedures, forming capacity in vulnerability assessment, and through a series of trainings at national and regional levels for managing extreme weather events. Key activities include the review of early warning system in project countries; the development of regional […]

Countries :

Cambodia Timor-Leste

Date : June 2011 – March 2013

Donor : UNDP

The project aims to strengthen capacities to manage extreme weather events through the development of standard operating procedures, forming capacity in vulnerability assessment, and through a series of trainings at national and regional levels for managing extreme weather events. Key activities include the review of early warning system in project countries; the development of regional training curriculum on improving collection and sharing of reliable forecasts to national agencies; the development of vulnerability profiles for Cambodia and Timor-Leste; the development of national SOPs for early warning; and training of forecasters in the provision of annual, seasonal, monthly, and real-time forecasts for preparedness planning, response, and risk reduction.

Complete Programs Use of climate data and climate change projections in Asia and the Pacific in project design

Project Description: The project shall compile currently available climate data and climate change projections in Asia and the Pacific, and analyze the gap between currently available information and the needs for project design. Key activities are: desktop review of currently available climate data and climate change projections in Asia and the Pacific region; assessment of […]

Countries :

Regional

Date : July 2011 – November 2011

Donor : UNEP

Project Description:
The project shall compile currently available climate data and climate change projections in Asia and the Pacific, and analyze the gap between currently available information and the needs for project design. Key activities are: desktop review of currently available climate data and climate change projections in Asia and the Pacific region; assessment of gaps between currently available data and projections and the need for project design by major donor and implementation agencies; and identification of recommendations to bridge gaps.
The project aimed to analyze gaps between currently available climate data and climate change projections in Asia and the Pacific and the needs for project design. Key activities included desk review of currently available climate data and projections, and use by major donors/ implementing agencies in project design; and identification of gaps and recommendations.

Complete Programs Support to the generation and use of climate forecasts for climate risk management and food security

Project Description: The project aims to enhance understanding, relevance, and use of climate information for food security-related planning, disaster preparedness, and mitigation in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar Key activities include pre-season monsoon forums, one each in Cambodia and Lao PDR; media trainings in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar to enhance reporting of seasonal climate […]

Countries :

Cambodia Lao PDR Myanmar

Date : April 2012 – August 2012

Donor : FAO

Project Description: The project aims to enhance understanding, relevance, and use of climate information for food security-related planning, disaster preparedness, and mitigation in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar Key activities include pre-season monsoon forums, one each in Cambodia and Lao PDR; media trainings in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar to enhance reporting of seasonal climate forecasts and related information to potential users and the general public; and intensive training on climate forecasting and risk management for 2 climate forecasters from Cambodia

Complete Programs Support for Climate Risk Management and Forecasting in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar

The project aims to enhance the relevance of climate information and forecasts for better-informed decision-making and preparedness to climate hazards and disasters. Key activities include conducting 3 post-season monsoon forums, one each in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar; and 3-month intensive training on climate forecasting and risk management for 2 core forecasters from Cambodia

Countries :

Cambodia Lao PDR Myanmar

Date : November 2011 – March 2012

Donor : FAO

The project aims to enhance the relevance of climate information and forecasts for better-informed decision-making and preparedness to climate hazards and disasters. Key activities include conducting 3 post-season monsoon forums, one each in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar; and 3-month intensive training on climate forecasting and risk management for 2 core forecasters from Cambodia

Complete Programs Linking information and decision-making to improve food security in selected countries of the Greater Mekong Sub-region

The project aims to establish Monsoon Forums to enhance utility of seasonal climate forecasts, and to identify, through a participatory process, climate change issues affecting agriculture, food security, and livelihoods in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar. Key activities include landscaping of institutions and their decision and policy frameworks; identification of opportunities for climate risk management; […]

Countries :

Cambodia Lao PDR Myanmar

Date : August 2010 – August 2011

Donor : FAO

The project aims to establish Monsoon Forums to enhance utility of seasonal climate forecasts, and to identify, through a participatory process, climate change issues affecting agriculture, food security, and livelihoods in Cambodia, Lao PDR, and Myanmar. Key activities include landscaping of institutions and their decision and policy frameworks; identification of opportunities for climate risk management; technical assistance to NMHSs in convening monsoon forums; and stakeholder consultations to present study outcomes, take stock of ongoing and planned initiatives, identify and agree on key issues, and set initial directions for further work.

Cambodia,Lao PDR,Myanmar

Projects sorted by Country

Armenia Ongoing Projects Completed Projects Climate Risk Management Technical Assistance Support Project Bangladesh Ongoing Projects Enhancing early warning system for community-based response in Bangladesh under SHOUHARDO- II Piloting of Bay of Bengal cyclones and depression tracks and landfall for enhanced accuracy and improved lead time for disaster risk reduction in Nobo Jibon Program areas, Bangladesh […]

Armenia

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Climate Risk Management Technical Assistance Support Project

Bangladesh

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Bhutan

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Cambodia

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Comoros

Ongoing Projects

Development and Implementation of an Integrated Ocean Information System for Indian Ocean Countries

Completed Projects

Development of a pilot digital elevation model for Comoros Islands

Ecuador

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Climate Risk Management Technical Assistance Support Project

India

Ongoing Projects

Reducing risks of tsunami, storm surges, large waves, and other natural hazards in low elevation coastal zones

Completed Projects

Expanded Climate Risk Management Technical Assistance Support Project

Indonesia

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Lao PDR

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Maldives

Ongoing Projects

Reducing risks of tsunami, storm surges, large waves, and other natural hazards in low elevation coastal zones

Completed Projects

Mauritius

Ongoing Projects

Development and Implementation of an Integrated Ocean Information System for Indian Ocean Countries

Completed Projects

Mongolia

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Expanded Climate Risk Management Technical Assistance Support Project

Mozambique

Ongoing Projects

Development and Implementation of an Integrated Ocean Information System for Indian Ocean Countries

Completed Projects

Climate Risk Management Technical Assistance Support Project

Myanmar

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Nepal

Ongoing Projects

Climate Adaptation and Resilience (CARE) for South Asia

Completed Projects

Pakistan

Ongoing Projects

Climate Adaptation and Resilience (CARE) for South Asia

Completed Projects

Expanded Climate Risk Management Technical Assistance Support Project

Philippines

Ongoing Projects

Enhancing coastal hazard early warning and response: tools and institutional strengthening

Completed Projects

Regional

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Use of climate data and climate change projections in Asia and the Pacific in project design

Sri Lanka

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Tanzania

Ongoing Projects

Development and Implementation of an Integrated Ocean Information System for Indian Ocean Countries

Completed Projects

Thailand

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Timor-Leste

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Strengthening early warning systems for extreme weather events to advance climate risk management in the Southeast Asian region

Vietnam

Ongoing Projects

Completed Projects

Enabling Environment for Integrating Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation in Southeast Asia

The project aims to define enabling conditions for practical integration of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in Southeast Asia. Key activities are the review of institutional mechanisms for, and policies, projects, and research on disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA); and analysis of enabling conditions for DRR and CCA integration.

Countries :

Cambodia Indonesia Lao PDR Myanmar Philippines Vietnam

The project aims to define enabling conditions for practical integration of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in Southeast Asia. Key activities are the review of institutional mechanisms for, and policies, projects, and research on disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA); and analysis of enabling conditions for DRR and CCA integration.

Complete Programs Development of high-resolution climate change model for the Maldives through statistical and dynamic downscaling of global climate change models to provide projections

The project aims to develop high-resolution regional climate model for the Maldives through statistical and dynamic downscaling of Global Climate Models (GCMs) to provide projections for use in national and local planning. The project aimed for availability of downscaled climate change projections for the Maldives, and capacity within climate-sensitive sectors on use of downscaled projections […]

Countries :

Maldives

Date : March 2011 – December 2011

The project aims to develop high-resolution regional climate model for the Maldives through statistical and dynamic downscaling of Global Climate Models (GCMs) to provide projections for use in national and local planning.
The project aimed for availability of downscaled climate change projections for the Maldives, and capacity within climate-sensitive sectors on use of downscaled projections in national and local level planning. The project contributes to increasing resilience of the Maldives in the face of climate change, and improving capacity to respond effectively to climate-related hazards, under an MHE-UNDP project, funded by the Least Development Country Fund, UNDP, and Government of Maldives.

Key activities included review of climate change modeling information; identification of data sources; stakeholder consultations on most appropriate scenario parameters, emission scenarios, modeling tools, and resolution of model outputs; statistical and dynamic downscaling; model validation and customization; interpretation and translation of climate change projections; communication of findings to national and local level users; training of Maldives Meteorological Services on GIS-based output visualization; preparation of climate change country profile report.ec

Complete Programs Seismic Hazard and Risk Assessment of Six Cities in Bangladesh

The project aims to develop probabilistic seismic hazard and risk maps for Rangpur, Dinajpur, Mymensingh, Tangail, Bogra, and Rajshahi. The project aimed to assess seismic hazard and risks in 6 cities in Bangladesh, under the Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme Phase II. Key activities included development of probabilistic seismic hazard maps for Rangpur, Dinajpur, Mymensingh, Tangail, […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

Date : August 2012 – August 2014

The project aims to develop probabilistic seismic hazard and risk maps for Rangpur, Dinajpur, Mymensingh, Tangail, Bogra, and Rajshahi.
The project aimed to assess seismic hazard and risks in 6 cities in Bangladesh, under the Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme Phase II. Key activities included development of probabilistic seismic hazard maps for Rangpur, Dinajpur, Mymensingh, Tangail, Borga,a nd Rajshahi; deterministic seismic hazard assessment for Bangladesh; and seismic hazard de-aggregation analysis.

Facilitating the integration of tsunami warning by strengthening multi-hazard warning systems in Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines

The project aims to facilitate the integration of tsunami warning into national early warning systems through the establishment, capacity building, and institutionalization of early warning national forums with participation of mass-based organization. The project further focussed on capacity building of field-level National Red Cross Society in forecast translation. Furthermore, RIMES conducted system audits to ensure functionality […]

Countries :

Indonesia Philippines Sri Lanka Vietnam

The project aims to facilitate the integration of tsunami warning into national early warning systems through the establishment, capacity building, and institutionalization of early warning national forums with participation of mass-based organization.

The project further focussed on capacity building of field-level National Red Cross Society in forecast translation. Furthermore, RIMES conducted system audits to ensure functionality and reliability of early warning systems.

Complete Programs Expanded climate risk management technical assistance support project

The project aimed to build capacities of UNDP, UN, regional agency personnel, and partner agencies in Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste on analyzing risks related to climate variability and change, and identify risk management solutions, to inform country climate risk management and climate change adaptation program development. Key activities: […]

Countries :

Bangladesh India Maldives Mongolia Nepal Pakistan Papua New Guinea Timor-Leste

Date : January 2010 – August 2012

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to build capacities of UNDP, UN, regional agency personnel, and partner agencies in Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste on analyzing risks related to climate variability and change, and identify risk management solutions, to inform country climate risk management and climate change adaptation program development.

Key activities:

identification of key documents and data sources
analysis of historical and current climate variability and trends, including climate projections; analysis of stakeholders and their policies, programs, and decision contexts related to managing climate risks
analysis of historical climate impacts, and current and future climate risks in priority sectors
identification of climate risk management capacities, constraints, and opportunities
participatory prioritization of climate risk management and climate change adaptation actions

Complete Programs Enhancing capacities of National Red Cross Societies in Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam on early warning information interpretation, translation, and application for preparedness

The project aims to improve the National Red Cross Society headquarters‚ preparedness for emergency response through the use of early warning information in guiding preparedness activities. Key activities include training of National Red Cross Society headquarter personnel on early warning information interpretation, translation, communication, and application; enhancement of existing DM/ CBDM training curriculum; and documentation […]

Countries :

Indonesia Philippines Vietnam

Date : July 2010 – June 2011

Donor : American Red Cross

The project aims to improve the National Red Cross Society headquarters‚ preparedness for emergency response through the use of early warning information in guiding preparedness activities. Key activities include training of National Red Cross Society headquarter personnel on early warning information interpretation, translation, communication, and application; enhancement of existing DM/ CBDM training curriculum; and documentation of NRCS headquarter responses to early warning information

Complete Programs Climate Risk Management Technical Assistance Support Project

The project aimed to assist the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)‚Bureau for Crisis Prevention and Recovery (BCPR) and the Bureau for Development Policy‚Energy and Environment Group (BDP/EEG) in identifying, through stakeholder approach, science-informed priority climate risk management and climate change adaptation actions in Armenia, Ecuador, Indonesia, and Mozambique, to guide UNDP programming in these countries. […]

Countries :

Armenia Ecuador Indonesia Mozambique

Date : February 2008 – December 2009

Donor : UNDP

The project aimed to assist the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)‚Bureau for Crisis Prevention and Recovery (BCPR) and the Bureau for Development Policy‚Energy and Environment Group (BDP/EEG) in identifying, through stakeholder approach, science-informed priority climate risk management and climate change adaptation actions in Armenia, Ecuador, Indonesia, and Mozambique, to guide UNDP programming in these countries. Key activities include climate risk analysis; institution, decision and policy research; and consensus-based identification and prioritization of risk management actions

Complete Programs Development of weather forecast modeling and flood forecasting system for Nepal

The project aims to support the strengthening of Nepal‚s national capacity for flood risk reduction and adaptation to climate change by improving data processing capabilities and enable the generation of user-friendly climate and flood risk information for decision-making. Key activities include the customization of meso-scale forecasting system (WRF) for Nepal domain; the validation and improvement […]

Countries :

Nepal

Date : June 2009 – May 2011

The project aims to support the strengthening of Nepal‚s national capacity for flood risk reduction and adaptation to climate change by improving data processing capabilities and enable the generation of user-friendly climate and flood risk information for decision-making. Key activities include the customization of meso-scale forecasting system (WRF) for Nepal domain; the validation and improvement of the meso-scale modeling system; the assessment and design of appropriate flood forecasting model for a priority basin (Bagmati); flood risk mapping for model basin based on high-resolution digital elevation model; training and capacity building on weather and flood forecasting, and forecast application; and weather and flood forecasting model and technology transfer to DHM

Development of flood forecast technology in Bangladesh

The project developed climate, flood, and flashflood forecasting and application technologies, and transferred these to and built capacities of Government of Bangladesh institutions and professionals for operationalization. Key activities include the development and improvement of weather, climate, and flood forecast schemes of 1-6 days, 20-25 days, and 1-6 months lead times; the transfer of the […]

Countries :

Bangladesh

The project developed climate, flood, and flashflood forecasting and application technologies, and transferred these to and built capacities of Government of Bangladesh institutions and professionals for operationalization. Key activities include the development and improvement of weather, climate, and flood forecast schemes of 1-6 days, 20-25 days, and 1-6 months lead times; the transfer of the above forecast technologies; development of localized forecast products for flashfloods and lengths of dry and wet spells within the monsoon season; the development and delivery of capacity building program for Bangladeshi scientists; and demonstrations through pilot projects of the end-to-end forecast generation and application system

Complete Programs Development of Bhutan National weather and flood forecasting and warning center

The project aims to design and establish a basic 24/7 National Weather and Flood Forecasting and Warning Center in Bhutan, for providing reliable weather and flood forecasts for early warning of hydro-meteorological hazards. Key activities include the assessment of existing systems for weather and flood forecasting, and identification of capacity gaps; system design for weather […]

Countries :

Bhutan

Date : February 2009 – June 2010

Donor : Danida/ GNHC

The project aims to design and establish a basic 24/7 National Weather and Flood Forecasting and Warning Center in Bhutan, for providing reliable weather and flood forecasts for early warning of hydro-meteorological hazards. Key activities include the assessment of existing systems for weather and flood forecasting, and identification of capacity gaps; system design for weather and flood forecasting and warning; the development of GIS-based forecast products for Bhutan‚Hydro-Meteorological Services Division‚(HMSD) website; and training of HMSD staff in data collection and analysis, meteogram generation, and analysis of RIMES forecast products, among others.
The project provided technical support services to Bhutan’s Hydro-Met Services Division in designing and initial establishment of a 24/7 national weather and flood forecasting and warning center. Key activities included assessment of existing system for weather and flood forecasting, system design, establishment of basic system, development of GIS-based forecast products, and training

Complete Programs Establishment of RIMES regional facility for tsunami watch provision

The project aims to establish RIMES regional center for tsunami warning, with capabilities to receive and process seismic, sea level, and deep ocean data; evaluate data to assess tsunamigenic potential, and prepare and disseminate earthquake alerts and tsunami watch to RIMES Member States. Key activities include the design of tsunami watch provision system, which includes […]

Countries :

India Regional

Date : July 2007 – June 2010

Donor : ESCAP

The project aims to establish RIMES regional center for tsunami warning, with capabilities to receive and process seismic, sea level, and deep ocean data; evaluate data to assess tsunamigenic potential, and prepare and disseminate earthquake alerts and tsunami watch to RIMES Member States. Key activities include the design of tsunami watch provision system, which includes real/ near real-time data acquisition, data management, threat assessment, and earthquake and tsunami alert dissemination systems according to UNESCO/IOC standards for tsunami warning in the Indian Ocean; regional center site preparation; equipment acquisition; on-site installation and telemetry; and system integration, customization, and reliability testing.

Complete Programs End-to-end Early Warning of Tsunamis and other Natural Hazards for Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation in the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia: Phase 2

The project aims to enhance RIMES tsunami early warning capability by developing numerical tsunami modeling capacity within RIMES regional early warning center and preparing tsunami inundation maps. Key activities include the review of current and emerging seismological techniques for rapid estimation of earthquake parameters; the evaluation of available tsunami generation, propagation, and inundation models; training […]

Countries :

Bangladesh Cambodia Lao PDR Maldives Myanmar Philippines Sri Lanka Thailand

Date : February 2008 – December 2010

Donor : ESCAP

The project aims to enhance RIMES tsunami early warning capability by developing numerical tsunami modeling capacity within RIMES regional early warning center and preparing tsunami inundation maps. Key activities include the review of current and emerging seismological techniques for rapid estimation of earthquake parameters; the evaluation of available tsunami generation, propagation, and inundation models; training on seismological techniques and tsunami numerical models; the development of database of tsunamigenic seismic sources in the region; the development of comprehensive database of pre-computed tsunami simulations; tsunami risk assessment and generation of tsunami risk maps; the development of GIS-based graphical format for tsunami warning communication; the integration of tsunami watch procedure and graphical presentation into regional center operation; and on-the-job training to scientists seconded by RIMES Member States

Complete Programs Development of a pilot digital elevation model for Comoros Islands

The project developed digital elevation model for Comoros, for use in tsunami modeling training course. Key activities include the collection of near-shore bathymetric and topographic charts, survey bechmarks, and administrative boundaries, and confirmation with project partners on most vulnerable areas; GPS survey for data validation; GIS database development; validation of global datasets with digitized data, […]

Countries :

Comoros

Date : February 2011 – February 2011

Donor : UNDP

The project developed digital elevation model for Comoros, for use in tsunami modeling training course. Key activities include the collection of near-shore bathymetric and topographic charts, survey bechmarks, and administrative boundaries, and confirmation with project partners on most vulnerable areas; GPS survey for data validation; GIS database development; validation of global datasets with digitized data, and bias correction; and DEM validation with tsunami inundation model
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Complete Programs Establishment of a network of automatic weather and hydrological stations in Bhutan

The project aims to design and establish a network of 3 automatic weather stations and 2 automatic water level stations for providing real-time data to Bhutan‚National Weather and Flood Forecasting and Warning Center. Key activities include the assessment of existing system for weather and hydrological observation and monitoring; network design, including identification of hardware and […]

Countries :

Bhutan

Date : February 2009 – June 2010

The project aims to design and establish a network of 3 automatic weather stations and 2 automatic water level stations for providing real-time data to Bhutan‚National Weather and Flood Forecasting and Warning Center. Key activities include the assessment of existing system for weather and hydrological observation and monitoring; network design, including identification of hardware and software requirements and specifications; technical support to evaluation of tenders; and equipment installation, telemetry, testing, and commissioning
Level of Funding:
This is part of the project Development of Bhutan‚national weather and flood forecasting and warning center (refer to item 2 above)

Complete Programs Establishment of a network of 6 near real-time sea level stations in Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam

The project aims to establish 6 near real-time sea level stations in Philippines (3), Thailand (1), and Vietnam (2) for monitoring sea level changes, for tsunami early warning. Key activities include site survey to determine location appropriate for tsunami warning; the design and construction of sea level station platform; equipment acquisition; on-site installation, telemetry, and […]

Countries :

Philippines Thailand Vietnam

Date : August 2006 – April 2010

Donor : ESCAP

The project aims to establish 6 near real-time sea level stations in Philippines (3), Thailand (1), and Vietnam (2) for monitoring sea level changes, for tsunami early warning. Key activities include site survey to determine location appropriate for tsunami warning; the design and construction of sea level station platform; equipment acquisition; on-site installation, telemetry, and reliability testing; and training of national partner technical staff on station operation and maintenance

Complete Programs Establishment of a network of 4 real-time seismic stations in Myanmar, Philippines, and Vietnam

The project aims to establish 4 real-time sea-level stations in Myanmar (1), the Philippines (1), and Vietnam (2) for monitoring earthquakes, for tsunami early warnings. Key activities include site survey to determine location appropriate for tsunami warning; the design and construction of seismic vaults; equipment acquisition; and on-site installation, telemetry, and reliability testing

Countries :

Myanmar Philippines Vietnam

Date : July 2007 – June 2010

Donor : ESCAP

The project aims to establish 4 real-time sea-level stations in Myanmar (1), the Philippines (1), and Vietnam (2) for monitoring earthquakes, for tsunami early warnings. Key activities include site survey to determine location appropriate for tsunami warning; the design and construction of seismic vaults; equipment acquisition; and on-site installation, telemetry, and reliability testing

Program Area 5: Research and Development

RIMES, as a resource center for Member States, continuously engage in research and development activities to enable it to deliver cutting-edge technology and capacity building on new techniques and tools for analysis and application. The research agenda is driven by the search for low-cost, but efficient technologies; rapid provision of increasingly Ongoing Projects: Seismic Hazard […]

RIMES, as a resource center for Member States, continuously engage in research and development activities to enable it to deliver cutting-edge technology and capacity building on new techniques and tools for analysis and application. The research agenda is driven by the search for low-cost, but efficient technologies; rapid provision of increasingly

Ongoing Projects:

Seismic Hazard and Risk Assessment of Six Cities in Bangladesh

Completed Projects:

Program Area 4: Capacity Building in Early Warning at all Levels

An effective early warning system links technical agencies that generate warning information with people at risk. This is called end-to-end early warning system. In order to strength this system, RIMES builds forecasters’ capacities in observation and monitoring; data process and analysis; prediction and forecasting; risk assessment; warning formulation and dissemination until the last mile; preparation […]

An effective early warning system links technical agencies that generate warning information with people at risk. This is called end-to-end early warning system. In order to strength this system, RIMES builds forecasters’ capacities in observation and monitoring; data process and analysis; prediction and forecasting; risk assessment; warning formulation and dissemination until the last mile; preparation of response options; and system adjustment. It also builds user’s capacities in translating warning information into impact outlooks and response options, and their application in making decisions to reduce disaster risks

To reveal gaps and ensure the functionality and reliability of end-to-end early warning systems, periodic system audits are required. RIMES also assists countries by providing technical guidance and facilitation in early warning system audits. The projects carried out by RIMES under this area enhance enabling mechanisms for a people-centered early warning system, as espoused by the Hyogo Framework for Action.

Ongoing Projects:

Completed Projects:

Program Area 3: Support to NMHSs in Provision of Localized Hydro-Meteorological Risk Information

With increasing awareness of the potential impacts of climate change, it is realized that socio-economic sectors such as water, agriculture or fisheries, that are highly sensitive to weather and climate extremes like droughts, floods, cyclones and storms, heat waves or cold waves, have to enhance the use of climate information; however, decision-makers in these sectors […]

With increasing awareness of the potential impacts of climate change, it is realized that socio-economic sectors such as water, agriculture or fisheries, that are highly sensitive to weather and climate extremes like droughts, floods, cyclones and storms, heat waves or cold waves, have to enhance the use of climate information; however, decision-makers in these sectors are not sufficiently equipped to make effective use of climate information to manage current and future climate risks.

RIMES facilitates development/enhancement of enabling mechanisms for countries to make full use of global information and services. RIMES also provides a test bed for translating research products into operational products for application; facilitates linkages for accessing information necessary for prediction and forecasting; provides training in numerical prediction and downscaling for generating tailored forecast products, in collaboration with the World Meteorological Organization, as well as interpretation and translation of forecast products into user-friendly information.

Ongoing Projects:

Enhancing early warning system for community-based response in Bangladesh under SHOUHARDO- II (Integrated into Program Area 4)
Piloting of Bay of Bengal cyclones and depression tracks and landfall for enhanced accuracy and improved lead time for disaster risk reduction in Nobo Jibon Program areas, Bangladesh (Integrated into Program Area 4)
Reducing risks of tsunami, storm surges, large waves, and other natural hazards in low elevation coastal zones (Integrated into Program Area 4)
Strengthening of Myanmar’s Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (Integrated into Program Area 4)

Completed Projects:

Program Area 2: Provision of Tsunami Watch and Coastal Inundation Forecasts

UNESCO/IOC operational requirements for Regional Tsunami Service Providers (RTSPs) include the linking of earthquake and tsunami forecast information with local hazard and risk assessment and inundation models through National Tsunami Watch Centers (NTWCs) to provide coastal inundation forecasts for threatened communities (Tsunami Service Level 3). Inundation forecasts are useful in guiding preparedness activities, such as […]

UNESCO/IOC operational requirements for Regional Tsunami Service Providers (RTSPs) include the linking of earthquake and tsunami forecast information with local hazard and risk assessment and inundation models through National Tsunami Watch Centers (NTWCs) to provide coastal inundation forecasts for threatened communities (Tsunami Service Level 3). Inundation forecasts are useful in guiding preparedness activities, such as evacuation and mobilization of response resources for a tsunami emergency, to longer-term preparedness activities, such as risk awareness, emergency preparedness planning, evacuation drills, etc.

There have been a number of efforts on tsunami risk assessment by various external institutions; however, a key gap in these efforts has been capacity building of partner institutions in risk assessment tools. RIMES plays a key role in the region providing capacity building to Member States in end-to-end early warning. RIMES works with regional and global centers in developing low-cost technologies for tool development, provides a test bed for testing these tools for operational applications, transfers these technology and tools to Member States, and trains technical/ operational staffs in tool application.

Ongoing Projects:

Completed Projects:

Program Area 1: Establishment and Maintenance of Core Observing and Monitoring Stations

Data from dense observation network are ideally required for proper monitoring of atmospheric, sea/ocean, and geologic elements, and for assimilation into numerical predictions for the generation of forecasts (e.g. weather, tsunami, marine, etc.) and subsequent timely issuance of early warning information for disaster prevention. Currently, data shared globally is inadequate for prediction and generation of […]

Data from dense observation network are ideally required for proper monitoring of atmospheric, sea/ocean, and geologic elements, and for assimilation into numerical predictions for the generation of forecasts (e.g. weather, tsunami, marine, etc.) and subsequent timely issuance of early warning information for disaster prevention. Currently, data shared globally is inadequate for prediction and generation of high-resolution forecast products.

While establishment of key observation stations are a national responsibility, some observation stations generate data for regional benefit. Resource-deficient countries are often unable to establish observation stations that are of regional interest. RIMES works on establishing this kind of stations and, when host countries need assistance, share the responsibility of operating and maintaining these stations. RIMES also facilitates the enlistment of observing and monitoring stations in global networks, for sharing data globally.