Readiness stocktaking of multi-hazard early warning systems in Pacific small Island developing states

Pacific small island developing States are in unique geoclimatic settings, making them highly susceptible to hydrometeorological hazards. Safeguarding lives, livelihoods and infrastructure in these highly vulnerable countries requires the implementation of well-designed and functional early warning systems. For the present paper, an assessment is made of the early warning systems in the seven Pacific island States: Cook Islands; Fiji; Kiribati; Nauru; Niue; Tokelau; and Tuvalu. Specific challenges and distinctive requirements for each country or territory in establishing an effective early warning system are identified and recommendations are given to strengthen and advance the multi-hazard early warning system.