18 March 2009 Flood forecasting, warning and response systems sustainable technologies in breaking the disaster recovery cycle Toon Segeren, Deltares 18 March 2009 Knowledge and innovations are needed to keep coastal areas and river basins habitable. Deltares Delft Hydraulics 18 March 2009 Relevance The operation of a flood warning and response system is the most effective method for reducing the risk of loss of life and economic losses United Nations Guidelines for Reducing Flood LossesDetectionWarningResponse Forecasting in developing countries large floods can cause damages up to 40% of their GDP from response to preparedness and awareness 18 March 2009 Required for a Flood forecasting, warning and response system sustainable technology incorporating local institutional expertise embedding knowledge of own river and coastal systems small investment, large benefit ownership by end-user open approach to integrating existing models Delft-FEWS, flood early warning system training and capacity building long-term investment CONTINUITY, creating awareness room for new developments 18 March 2009 Research opportunities research focus reliable guidance to the decision maker to issue effective warnings, given uncertainties in forecast direct link to operations community development sharing advances with all users optimal use of investments