Additionally, research is required to improve prediction capabilities and other methods which can reduce the consequences of natural hazards. Finally, it important that data and other scientific information which is available is adequately translated into early warning systems and forecasts of potential natural disasters, so that protective action can be taken by concerned authorities. Presentations at the Potsdam Early Warning Conference demonstrated significant improvements in long-term forecasting of climate anomalies, such as El Ni o episodes, which enables more rapid and extensive warnings pertaining to climate variability. El Ni o event. They can only achieve their true value by being translated into concrete actions.
Early warning represents a cornerstone of disaster reduction.
Effective early warning depends upon a multi-sectoral and interdisciplinary collaboration among all concerned actors, as demonstrated during the Potsdam Early Warning Conference. While early warning capabilities must continue to be strengthened at the global level, it is important that greater emphasis be given to developing capacities that are relevant, and responsive to, the needs of local communities. Before the conclusion of the decade specific successor arrangements for the continued promotion of disaster reduction should be made in order to ensure, inter alia, the continuing integration and evolution of early warning at the local, national, regional, and global levels of responsibility.