Author(s)

A. Al Hmoudi, Z. Aziz

Abstract

In the UAE, there are deficiencies in the use of technology in the exchange of information and reliance on the National Centre for Meteorology and Seismology Monitoring and Warning (NCMS). The new centre is affiliated to the Ministry of Presidential Affairs and it is established in coordination with concerned authorities. It is networked with similar centers in the region for the sharing of information and intervention at times of need. It also provides meteorology monitoring with advice and warning on storms. However, members of the community are uninformed and do not know the procedures carried out in the event of the arrival of early warning signals. The UAE is vulnerable to the possibility of tsunami activity. Early warning systems (EWS) within the UAE face various socio-technical challenges. Moreover, there are shortcomings in the training process and scenarios with individuals and institutions of civil society. Natural disaster management is not only about shelters and distribution of blankets, medicines and evacuation operations. It is also about education, awareness generation, mitigation strategies, community participation and lifestyles.

Keywords

early warning, challenges, community, natural hazards, disaster management, NCMS, communication