Early Warning Systems

By: Zulaika binti Laini (20989)

Early warning system (EWS) is a chain of information communication system to forecast and signal
disturbances that adversely affect the stability of the physical world, providing time for the response system to
prepare for the adverse event and to minimize the impact.

The way early warning system manage the risk is by collecting data and undertaking risk assessments
of predefined hazards. From the assessments and studies about the potential hazards, dissemination, and
communication with regards to the hazards needs to be reached to the potential victims in a way that is clear
and understandable. Finally, a thorough study regarding the effectiveness of the system will be conducted for
the betterment of the system.

Figure 1: Early Warning System Observer Controller Model and the Subsystem

EWS comprises sensors, event detection, and decision subsystems. A complete and effective EWS
supports four main functions; risk analysis, monitoring and warning, dissemination and communication and a
response capability.

Let us talk about the pros and cons of the system. A little bit history on how EWS become the centre of
interest in predicting hazards. It all started since the tragedy of Indian Ocean Tsunami on 26 th December 2004.
Since then, the high intensity of tectonic movement around Indian Ocean demands serious attention. EWS is
used to monitor this situation. EWS relies on the exchange and integration of data sent by sensors from various
places in which it is very effective in providing signals for the potential threats. However, not all community are
aware of the technology, so it is hard for people at the most far off region to understand the dissemination of
information about the disasters. The standard operating procedure may take a long time to provide alerts on
hazards. Plus, this system is also highly vulnerable to the human error which maybe cause dissemination of false
alarms to the public.

To mitigate the cons of EWS, a policy mix is needed. This is to ensure the effectiveness of the EWS. By
having these policies, we can reduce the cons that aforementioned. Below figure is an example of risk-
management policy mix, in which physical protections avoid frequent events; land-use planning limit population
and asset exposure if protections are overtopped; weather forecasts, warnings, early warning, evacuation,
insurance reduce.