The parallel session aimed at sharing the importance of early warning system, its services and usability in forecasting the probable disasters in Nepal such as in flood, landslide etc. Majority of speakers reflected their organizational experiences of working with the community level in collaboration of NDRRMA and also with different organizations (TU, KU) and non-profit organizations. On top of this, the session highlights the impact-based forecasting for anticipatory action in Nepal and lessons from joint action between NDRRMA, DHM and Nepal Red Cross Society. The initiatives taken from NDRRMA through regular real time data update and monitoring in Bipad portal was localized throughout the session and highlighted the importance of data driven decision making.

The speakers and their presentations focused on -
– Mr. Bikram Shrestha Juwa, Senior Divisional Hydrologist, Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM)
– Forest Fire Early Warning System in Nepal, Mr. Sundar Sharma, Under Secretary (Tech.), NDRRMA
– Multi-hazard warning system: Nepal's progress and experience, Dr. Dharam Raj Uprety, Thematic Head of Climate & Resilience, Practical Action Nepal
– Mr. Manish Shrestha, Hydrologist, Water and Air, International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)
– Impact Based Forecasting for Anticipatory Action: Lessons from joint action between NDRRMA, DHM, Municipalities and NRCS, DRC, IFRC- Ms. Neeru Pradhan, Senior Program Officer, Danish Red Cross / Nepal Red Cross Society