South Asia is the newest region to benefit from a novel weather prediction and data analysis system. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has recently initiated the South Asian Flash Flood Guidance System (FFGS) with the purpose of aiding preparation efforts by disaster management teams and the government in anticipation of floods. Sharing valuable data and forecast information will help ensure timely evacuation plans can be put into effect ahead of any imminent flood event.
Setting up the South Asian Flash Flood Guidance System
A special FFGS facility will be brought into existence in New Delhi where experts will conduct weather modelling and evaluate rainfall data collected from participating countries. This will afford a more precise picture of potential weather threats and allow preemptive action plans to be devised.
Understanding Flash Floods and Their Implications
Flash floods are characterized by abrupt surges in water levels either during an intense downpour or shortly after. They are typically localized events which last for a short duration and reach their peak rapidly, often within six hours of the initial rainfall. Provoked by obstructions like clogged drainage systems or physical encroachments that inhibit the natural flow of water, the situation can quickly deteriorate.
The Challenges of Predicting Flash Floods
Predicting flash floods is inherently difficult due to their lightning-fast development and massive water runoff. Furthermore, climate change has spiked the frequency of extreme rain events, putting South Asia on high alert for flash floods. It’s estimated that around 5,000 deaths occur worldwide on an annual basis as a result of flash floods. Despite this considerable loss of life, until now, there wasn’t any solid forecasting or early warning system for flash floods.
Role of the South Asian Flash Flood Guidance System
In response to the urgent need for advanced warning systems, the Hydrologic Research Centre in the U.S. developed the South Asian FFGS. This move came after the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and several South Asian countries expressed their concerns and the pressing need for such a system.
The Warning Mechanism in Action
The FFGS warning system will provide advanced warnings based on potential rainfall and flooding scenarios. A flash flood threat warning will be disseminated six hours ahead of time, and a flood risk warning will be issued 24 hours in advance. Warnings about watershed levels will be circulated 12 hours in advance.
India’s Involvement in the Initiative
India has taken a leadership role in this collaborative effort. The delegation includes Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, all pooling their hydrological and meteorological data to work towards creating more accurate flash flood forecasts. India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Central Water Commission (CWC) have been instrumental partners in the development of this game-changing system.