In January 2018, the Swiss Alps faced an extraordinary avalanche risk due to heavy snowfall and stormy weather, putting communities, tourists, and critical infrastructure in danger. Thanks to Switzerland’s multi-hazard early warning system, real-time data on avalanche risks were rapidly communicated to local authorities and the public. Roads, railways, and ski resorts were promptly closed, and people were evacuated from high-risk areas. The early warning system allowed for precise warnings, preventing major catastrophes and saving lives.
Climate change is an undeniable global challenge, and Georgia is no exception. The country's unique geography, varied terrain, and diverse climate (nine climate zones) make it vulnerable to a range of climate-induced hazards. These hazards are becoming more frequent and severe. While the negative impacts are inevitable, this does not mean that many of the risks it poses to human lives and livelihoods cannot be prevented or mitigated.
Switzerland, as a country with extensive experience, knowledge, and a effective early warning system, contributes to Georgia’s efforts to install the system, build the capacity of relevant institutions and staff, and mitigate risks posed by potential catastrophes. Notably, in 2018, UNDP Georgia, with financial support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Green Climate Fund (GCF), Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), and the Georgian government, started implementing a multi-faceted project with an ambitious goal: to reduce exposure of Georgia’s communities, livelihoods, and infrastructure to climate-induced hazards by creating an effective national multi-hazard early warning system and risk informed local action. The GCF- and SIDA-funded components particularly focus on shifting a conventional paradigm by embarking on transformative policies and actions in the national climate risk management, climate-proofed disaster risk reduction and early warning approaches.
