The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has called for urgent action to close critical gaps in global early warning systems designed to protect communities from extreme weather and climate-related disasters, particularly in developing countries.
Speaking at a special meeting in Geneva on Monday, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said early warnings are essential to saving lives and safeguarding infrastructure, but only 55% of countries currently have sufficient surveillance capacity.
Over the past five decades, weather, water, and climate-related hazards have killed more than 2 million people, with 90% of those deaths occurring in developing nations, according to WMO data.
“Many millions still lack protection against dangerous weather, which is taking a growing toll on lives, livelihoods, and vital assets,” the agency said in a statement.
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While the number of countries using early warning systems has doubled to 119 in the last three years, a WMO assessment found that half of 62 surveyed countries have only basic capacity, and 16% have less than basic systems. Encouraging progress, however, has been recorded in parts of Africa, including Mozambique and Ethiopia, where more nations are now issuing standardized alerts.
“Early warning means early action. Our goal is not only to warn the world but to empower it,” Saulo said at the opening of the conference.
The WMO found that deaths from disasters are six times higher and the number of people affected four times higher in countries lacking robust early warning systems.
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Switzerland’s Minister of Home Affairs, Elisabeth Baume-Schneider, echoed the call for preparedness, noting that no country is immune to the effects of climate change. She cited the May 2025 evacuation of the Swiss village of Blatten, after scientists used glacier monitoring data to predict its collapse.
“Permafrost melt will inevitably lead to more glacier collapses and rockfalls,” she said. “That’s why early warning systems are not optional they’re essential.”
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
